A fire can sweep through a commercial building with surprising speed. The sooner the flames are put out, the less fire damage there will be to your property. But water damage from firefighting efforts can sometimes cause just as much destruction as the fire itself. Water from fire hoses, as well as water released by built-in sprinkler systems, can damage both the building structure and its contents. Here’s how your business can recover from water damage after a fire.
The facts about water damage
Excess water from firefighting can soak everything inside a commercial facility. The longer the water is left to sit, the greater the risk that structural components and contents, including equipment and furnishings, will be permanently damaged or destroyed. Excess moisture can also cause mould growth which, if not addressed quickly, could mean additional restoration costs in the hundreds or thousands of dollars. Immediate response is key; the longer water is left to sit, the more extensive and expensive the damage becomes.
If water damage occurs at your place of business, take the following steps as soon as possible:
Document the damage
After officials have declared it safe to re-enter the building, document the fire and water damage to your property and contents. Create a list of all items that were damaged or destroyed and take plenty of photos before beginning clean-up. Provide your insurance company with as many details as possible about your losses so they can properly process your claim.
Contact your insurance company
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible and advise your insurance representative about any repairs you intend to make immediately. They may advise you to wait for an adjuster to visit your commercial property before you begin clean-up and restoration.
Remove excess water
Arrange for professional water extraction or use a pump to remove any standing or excess water. Open doors and windows to allow fresh air to circulate and dry your building.
Prevent further damage
Mould can begin to grow within one to two days after water damage has occurred. To prevent extensive damage to your property, contact a professional water restoration company right away.
What to expect from water damage restoration services after a fire
Restoration begins with a thorough inspection of your commercial property to evaluate the full scope of harm that has occurred, including unseen water damage, as a result of firefighting. The detailed assessment will provide accurate data to assist you with your insurance claim.
To minimize further destruction that can occur if excess water is not removed quickly, all standing water is extracted as soon as possible using heavy-duty pumps and vacuum systems. Water removal is followed by drying, using industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out walls and floors, and to reduce indoor air humidity to safe levels.
Once thoroughly dry, all affected areas are cleaned and sanitized to eliminate mould spores and other contaminants. Deodorization treatments are often added. The final stages of restoration involve structural repairs, which may include drywall replacement, floor restoration, or any other work required to return your property to its pre-fire condition.
Checklist
When you call for water restoration services, you can expect certified technicians to assist in the following ways:
- Detailed damage assessment to help with your insurance claim
- Use of specialized extraction equipment to quickly remove all water
- Thorough drying of affected areas, including wall cavities, flooring, and other building materials
- Removal of excess moisture and humidity by dehumidifying affected areas
- Professional mould inspection and appropriate removal or preventative treatments, if necessary
- Inspection for bacteria on surfaces after water damage has occurred and proper treatment, if necessary, to ensure the building is safe for occupants to return
- Restoration of structural elements and any salvageable contents
Dealing with water damage to your business after a fire can be a challenging and stressful process. The water damage restoration professionals at ServiceMaster Restore have the experience, state-of-the-art equipment, and expertise to efficiently recover your property to its pre-loss condition. With our commitment to service excellence, we will work with you to develop a comprehensive plan and guide you throughout each procedure, to restore your business operations and your peace of mind as quickly as possible.