Commercial Water Damage Concerns due to COVID-19

12/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Cleans Commercial Buildings

With many offices and commercial spaces vacant, or minimally staffed due to Covid, water damage has become more common and more severe.  There are several reasons for this increase but many can be prevented with a few simple steps.  Here is a list of causes and some steps to prevent a disaster.

• Broken pipes due to freezing – With less staff working, water is not flowing as regularly and pipes are more prone to freezing. Consider shutting off/draining water pipes to areas that are not being used. 
• Stagnant water – water sitting in pipes can become rusty and foul. Run the water/flush toilets daily which keeps water fresh.  This also helps to keep water in the drain’s “S-trap” which prevents sewer gases from coming into the property.
• Undetected leaks – slow leaks that go undetected can lead to significant mold issues. Major leaks can cause catastrophic damage if they are allowed to flood the structure undetected.  Assign a team member to walk the property regularly looking for potential leaks, especially new markings in ceiling sheet rock or tiles.
• Deferred maintenance – While the facility may not be getting it’s typical wear and tear, regular maintenance is still needed on essential systems like boilers, furnaces, and alarm systems.

Should a loss occur call SERVPRO of Hackensack/Little Ferry at 201-330-4193.