Water damage is a leading cause of property damage in the US. It can affect both residential and commercial buildings. Studies say that approximately 730,000 retail, office, and multi-unit residential properties are at risk of flood damage every year in the US. $13.5 billion is expected to be the cost of structural damage from flooding in 2022.
Commercial water damage has a different impact from water damage to homes. The buildings affected may be larger, the number of employees affected may be more, more complex mechanical systems face water damage, and there may be more expensive machines or devices in office buildings. Business owners need to understand the causes of water damage, the effect it has, and what measures may help to prevent it. Proven Restoration LLC in Katy, Texas offers water damage restoration and mold remediation services in Houston. In this article, this professional water damage restoration company points out some of the consequences of water damage to office buildings.
Common Causes of Commercial Water Damage
Damaged Windows
Burst or Damaged Pipes
Cracks in Foundation
Leaking Roofs
HVAC System Problems
Clogged Sewer Systems
Leaking Sprinkler System
Adverse Weather like Storms
Consequences of Water Damage To Office Buildings
Structural Changes
Any building can sustain structural and building material damage. Ceiling, drywall, flooring, insulation, and framing materials like wood or metal studs can all be exposed to moisture and water seepage. They may need repair or replacement.
Damage to Furniture and Equipment
Office furniture and furnishing can be affected by water damage. Some items may need to be discarded if mold growth has set in. Businesses usually have electrical and electronic equipment. There are printers, fax machines, devices used for payment, stock-keeping, employee tracking, computers, coffee machines, etc. All these can be affected by water damage. Supplies or stock that are kept for day-to-day operations can be damaged when exposed to water. Manufacturing businesses may have specialized equipment that can be expensive to replace or repair. Depending on what kind of business office or commercial building (healthcare, educational, restaurant or hotel, etc) is affected the type of equipment affected will vary.
Electrical Hazards
When electrical wires and devices are exposed to water they can get damaged. Also, there is a risk of electrical fire or electrocution of any person coming in contact with electrical devices or fixtures that may malfunction after water damage. This is a hazard that can result in casualties.
Risk of Exposure To Chemicals
If the business has any kind of chemicals stored, these can leak into the water that floods the building. This can cause further damage and are a health hazard to people, depending on the nature of the chemicals. If water damage is due to sewage backup the water is contaminated, and contact with this water must be avoided. Professionals with training and experience are equipped to handle cleanup and water damage restoration work safely and efficiently.
Mold
If water damage restoration is delayed, mold growth can occur. A building and its contents that are exposed to moisture for 24 to 48 hours are considered to be at high risk of developing mold growth. Mold can cause health issues. Indoor air quality may decline if water damage is not dealt with and mold remediation is not done thoroughly.
Financial Loss
Businesses will suffer financial losses after water damage. Apart from the cost of water damage restoration and the cost of replacing damaged equipment and supplies, businesses suffer indirect losses. The business may be disrupted while the office is being restored to normal condition. This causes delays and losses, and may also lead to customers seeking services from elsewhere. Rental income may also be lost after water damage. If the business is temporarily shifted to another location there will be additional expenses incurred.
The consequences of water damage can be prevented to an extent by regular maintenance to prevent leaking from pipes or appliances. Business owners should have an emergency plan to maintain business continuity in the event of any kind of property damage or disaster. Water damage due to sudden or accidental causes is possible no matter what preventive measures businesses take. When there is water damage, business owners should get service from a professional water damage restoration service.
Commercial water damage restoration is time-sensitive. Delay can worsen the extent of water damage, lead to complications like mold growth, and also cause income loss to the business. Proven Restoration LLC provides prompt water damage restoration and mold remediation services in Houston, Texas. The company is insured, bonded, and licensed by the state of Texas, and can be relied on for commercial water damage restoration services. Business owners can dial (713) 906-5133 to get a free estimate for restoration work from Proven Restoration LLC in Katy, Texas.