How Quick Response Minimizes Commercial Water Damage Costs

Commercial properties thrive in fast-paced environments where disruption must be kept to a minimum. Water damage is just one of the many challenges that can hinder operations. To put it simply, time doesn’t stop for water damage incidents. A swift response is essential for various reasons, which is what we’re here to discuss.

No smart business owner should overlook the repercussions of ignoring water damage. In this discussion, we will explore the key reasons why prompt commercial water damage cleanup is crucial.

Top Causes of Commercial Water Damage You Shouldn’t Ignore

Commercial water damage events can stem from a variety of causes. No matter the reason, the integrity of your property relies on quick water damage clean up.

Here are the top causes of commercial water damage to keep in mind:

Plumbing issues rank among the most common causes of water damage. Plumbing issues usually stem from clogged drains, sewer backups, and exposed pipes. The standing water that can result can be rather problematic for any property.
Leaking or burst pipes are immediate emergencies. Even small leakages can escalate in severity the longer they’re left unaddressed. Leaks can occur due to corrosion, damage, or loose connections.
Faulty appliances, from water heaters to commercial-grade dishwashers, can be disastrous. Whether it’s due to standard wear and tear or neglected maintenance, water can begin to leak from various appliances and create immediate flooding problems.
Extreme weather events, such as flooding, snowmelt, and heavy rain, can lead to troublesome water damage. While less common, natural disasters such as earthquakes, landslides, hurricanes, and tsunamis can cause equally significant water damage.
Roof leaks and damage in your property’s roofing system can cause water seepage. Once water has entered your property’s foundation, water damage commonly appears on the walls, leaving unsightly staining.
Overflowing toilets are cause for panic—we’ve all been there. Whether due to a backup or corroded components, an overflowing toilet can quickly cause water damage.
HVAC problems can lead to the buildup of condensation. If not addressed, this can eventually result in water damage due to leaks.
Human error, whether damaging a pipe, misusing appliances, or leaving a faucet running, is often the cause of water damage.

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The Immediate & Long-Term Consequences of Water Damage in Commercial Properties

Water damage has immediate and long-term consequences. Let’s break them down.

Structural Damage: The various structures of the property, ranging from wall boards and ceiling supports, can begin to absorb moisture. This leads to the deterioration of the structures' integrity and results in costly damage.

Mold Growth: Areas with high moisture content are the perfect environment for mold growth. Mold growth not only can cause further damage to the affected structures, but it also poses a health risk for occupants. This is a serious issue that only worsens over time.

Electrical Problems: Electrical-based systems and fixtures can be compromised by the excess moisture resulting from a water damage event. Exposed wires, switches, and outlets can short-circuit, creating a hazardous environment for occupants and compromising the electrical system as a whole.

Health Risks: Water damage also poses a risk to occupants’ health. The resulting mold can cause respiratory problems, while electrical hazards can cause electrocution.

Future Risk of Water Damage: Due to the deterioration of structures during the initial instance of water damage, these buildings are at a higher risk of suffering further damage, potentially even more severe, should another event occur.

Reduced Property Value: If water damage is neglected or not dealt with properly, property value can plummet due to unsafe conditions and unsightly damage.

Inefficient Energy Usage: After HVAC systems have been exposed to excessive moisture, they become less efficient and ineffective.

Discoloration and Staining: Walls, flooring, coverings, and ceilings, especially made of wood, are likely to become discolored and stained when exposed to water. This makes them an eyesore and can lead to more expensive repairs.

Pest Infestations: When there’s standing water or moist wood, it creates a perfect environment for pests like mosquitoes, flies, rodents, cockroaches, termites, and moth larvae to invade and wreak havoc.

Foul Odors and Declining Indoor Air Quality: When water damage occurs and materials become soaked with moisture, it creates an environment that is ripe for mold, mildew, and bacteria to thrive, resulting in unpleasant odors. These issues can also lead to a decline in indoor air quality, establishing an unhealthy living space.

Why Time Is Critical in Water Damage Events

Water Damage Disrupts Business Operations and Profits

Responding quickly with commercial water damage clean up services is of the utmost importance for your business. Quick action helps mitigate further damage, prevents the development of mold, and keeps repair costs lower. Above all, taking action within the first 24 hours minimizes disruptions to your business operations and profit loss. The longer you wait, the more you’ll pay—literally and figuratively.

What to Consider for a Rapid and Effective Water Damage Plan

You’ve heard the advice, “Hope for the best and prepare for the worst.” Here’s how you should prepare for water damage:

Having a solid emergency preparedness plan is essential. This plan should outline specific protocols, identify designated contacts, detail emergency shut-off procedures, and provide a list of professional resources to rely on.
Additionally, it’s important to establish a dedicated emergency response team within your organization, with clearly defined roles and responsibilities to ensure a smooth and efficient response when needed.
Since water damage can strike at any time, make sure you have access to a water damage clean up service that’s available 24/7.
Notify all relevant parties, such as employees, tenants, clients, and authorities, that water damage has occurred. Clear communication is one of the most important aspects of responding to water damage.

Why Professional Help Matters in Water Damage Restoration

Working with a team of qualified professionals, like those at Andrew’s, who understand how to clean up water damage, is your best approach for safeguarding your property.

Unlike DIY efforts that can often make matters worse, water damage professionals possess the expertise and resources to respond to these emergencies efficiently and safely.

When water damage affects your commercial property in the Arizona metropolitan area, it’s essential to choose Andrew’s for relief. We offer best-in-class water damage restoration services to protect your business, and handyman services if reconstruction is needed.

Water Damage Restoration: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical cost for water damage restoration?

While factors such as the extent and location of the damage affect actual costs, water damage restoration typically ranges from $3 to $7.50 per square foot.

How to clean up after water damage?

Begin by taking out any wet carpets and furniture from the building. Be sure to do the same with non-porous floor materials, so that the wood subfloors are revealed and can dry properly. Stay careful when working with materials that can contain asbestos or lead.

Is water damage covered in commercial property insurance?

Typically, sudden and accidental water damage stemming from a burst pipe or a storm-damaged roof is covered. Long-term damage that can be prevented by repairs and maintenance is not covered.

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