Water damage is pervasive, destructive, and expensive, whether for commercial or residential properties. However, there’s an undeniable difference that can be explained with one question. What’s the first thing you would grab in a fire? For homeowners, the answer is usually quite simple. Business owners, on the other hand, have a lot more to think about. There’s source code, intellectual property, critical documents, records, technical equipment, and a host of other items indispensable to your business, income, and future. The thing is, once a fire is put out, the damage doesn’t progress. Water, on the other hand, will continue to damage the things you leave behind until everything is dry and treated. But, what if you didn’t have to choose what to take? What if you were somehow prepared for the unexpected? Our commercial restoration experts have seen unprepared businesses go under too many times, which is why they’ve compiled four tips to help you prevent water damage in your business! #1 Regular Inspections Are A Must For Prevention Water damage can be caused by disasters like flooding, storm surges, heavy rains, and hurricanes. However, some causes don’t come with a weather warning! Commercial facilities tend to have extensive plumbing and HVAC systems that quickly cause water damage if not regularly inspected for weaknesses, leaks, and malfunctions. For example, severely blocked pipes can burst and incorrectly connected HVAC pipes lead to hidden leaks. Regular, professional inspections will not only prevent unexpected water damage such as this, but can help you prepare for weather warnings too! For example, poorly sealed windows and compromised roofing can quickly be identified and remedied to keep bad weather at bay. #2 Prepare Employees Proactively Do your employees know where the major shut-off valves for your business’ water supply are? What about your electrical main switches? If a pipe has burst or a leak has turned catastrophic, the water supply needs to be switched off immediately. And, considering water and electricity do not mix, your power should be cut ASAP too. Often, however, these switches and valves aren’t easily (or safely) accessible. Our restoration experts advise that employees know exactly who to contact to shut off your water and power. #3 Always Have A Plan B This may seem obvious, but having a Plan B is often lost in the ‘it can wait’ mindset, as no imminent disasters are ever expected. According to our experts, you need to expect the unexpected for proactive prevention. Purchase company safes or waterproof file cabinets that sit a few feet above the ground for critical documents. Invest in cloud software, rather than physical hard drives, to ensure that intellectual property and the like are indestructible. #4 Have A Commercial Restoration Company On Speed Dial Water damage waits for no one! There is absolutely no time to waste frantically Googling commercial restoration companies and trying to explain who and where you are. You need a reliable commercial restoration company, like Al-Care DKI, on speed dial who knows your business, where you are, and thus what action to take ASAP. We are insured, IICRC certified, and offer 24/7 emergency water damage services. Our support is unrivalled and guaranteed for two years, from cleanups to repairs, mould remediation, construction, and beyond. Contact us today to discuss prevention and plans of action!