SERVPRO suggests several measures business owners should consider in preparation for storm season

6/13/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO article discusses the seven steps commercial property owners should take to reduce the impact of storms on their properties.

7 steps to protect commercial property from storms 

The damage caused by storms can be devastating to lives and businesses. But business owners can take certain measures before the storm arrives to avoid the worst-case scenario. 

SERVPRO of Grapevine / NE Tarrant County shares some measures commercial property owners can take to mitigate the damage that storms can cause:

# 1 Review the insurance policy

Businesses evolve every year and so do their insurance needs. Working with an insurance provider to understand the current and requisite coverage needs of the business can save a lot of regret and money later. Knowing the limitations and benefits of the insurance will help take the necessary upgrades. Cross-checking the tenants’ mandatory insurance requirements and proofs would be advisable. 

# 2 Make a disaster preparedness plan

Disaster preparedness planning involves identifying organizational resources, determining roles and responsibilities, developing policies and procedures, and planning activities to reach a level of preparedness that allows timely and effective response in case a disaster occurs. 

This must be a documented action plan that everyone can refer to in the event of a storm. It can include instructions on outdoor preparation, such as storing all loose and therefore dangerous items, as well as protecting indoor property, such as computers and equipment.

# 3 Identify the threats

Every property has a vulnerable spot(s). Investing time to understand the various threats that storms can pose to a property is a worthwhile investment. This knowledge can lead to a well-researched and accurate plan that will help correct the vulnerabilities and mitigate the damage. 

Business owners can refer to the Flood Map Service Center (FEMA) to determine the probability and extent to which a property can experience damage from flooding and storm surges. It is usually a good idea to enlist the expertise of a licensed storm damage restoration company to inspect and maybe retrofit the property to enable enhanced protection from storms.

# 4 Plan in advance

In anticipation of the storm season, business owners can accomplish several tasks well in advance to save time and minimize stress:

1. Employee contact list: Having a handy list of employees that can be easily accessed

outside the office can be very helpful during and after an emergency event. 

1. Other contacts: A list can be compiled of other individuals or organizations that may need to be communicated with, such as major clients, insurance companies, suppliers, and contractors.
2. Emergency communication strategy: Brainstorming and devising a customer-facing communications strategy for emergencies would be brilliant planning. This can prevent loss of customers during the emergency period and enable the team to directly update customers about the pre and post-storm plans.
3. Insurance pictures: Detailed photos or videos of the property can prove extremely useful during insurance claims in case of storm damage. 

# 5 Stock emergency supplies

Unexpected storm incidents may lead to employees and other individuals being stuck at the premises. At the beginning of the storm season, it is wise to replenish the storm supply list. Non-perishable items; storm necessities such as batteries, portable radios, flashlights, and first-aid kits; and functional generators and fuel in case of power loss are some of the emergency supplies to stock to ensure support for those who may get stranded. 

# 6 Review last-minute tasks

Once a storm warning has been sounded, there are a series of tasks that can be done to mitigate the damage. Here are a few tasks the SERVPRO team recommends: 

1. Clear drains, gutters, and downspouts to enable smooth drainage during the storm
2. Secure or remove antennas or other movable objects on the roof
3. Move displays and outdoor signs indoors
4. Clear loose objects from desks and tabletops
5. Remove wall hangings
6. Protect important documents in a safe, elevated place
7. Switch off and disconnect electrical appliances and equipment
8. Close windows and board them up if required
9. Lock up all the entrance points securely before exiting

 # 7 After the storm 

Once the storm is over, there are important steps that will need to be taken. Business owners must ensure that their employees or building managers have detailed instructions on the plan of action after the storm passes. 

For instance, if the property has suffered storm damage, a Disaster Recovery team such as SERVPRO must be contacted to assess the property before personnel is allowed back into the building. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For storm damage restoration, call SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com