Southlake and Plano have amazing businesses and other commercial properties that help keep our community thriving. If you are an owner or manager of a commercial property, you know that it can be quite stressful. There are many things to consider when managing your employees and finances. Many things can go awry, leading to serious water or fire damage. Experiencing water or fire damage to a commercial property is incredibly taxing because your business may not be able to operate, or your employees may be out of work. In order to focus on your business and prevent catastrophes, follow our simple tips to keep your property and employees safe.
Commercial Fire Safety
Ensure You Have Fire Extinguishers/Smoke Detectors
Check to be sure that you have fire extinguishers in your commercial building. Be sure that they are operating properly and that they are located in an easy-to-access location, away from obstacles. Meet with your employees to ensure everyone knows where they are located and review with them how to use fire extinguishers correctly. Check the batteries in all smoke detectors to be sure they are working. You should have a smoke detector in every room of your commercial building. Extinguishers and smoke detectors are necessary for fire safety and prevention.
Maintain Electrical Systems
Most commercial properties or businesses require heavy machinery or appliances. Hire a professional electrician once a year to be sure they are working properly and are not at risk for malfunction. Check all cables and wires for electronics (computer chargers, light fixtures, fax/copy machines) to be sure they are not frayed or torn. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, faulty electrical wires and equipment are a leading cause of commercial fires. Be sure to replace equipment or wires that are not working as they should.
Ensure your Sprinkler System is up to Code
Your commercial property should have sprinkler systems in every room. Sprinklers installed on the ceiling can help diminish fires before they spread and cause serious fire damage to your property. Be sure to hire an experienced contractor to install a sprinkler system to provide peace of mind that they will work in case of an emergency.
Commercial Water Damage Prevention
Evaluate your Insurance Coverage
Although your insurance likely covers some water damage, most commercial property insurance does not protect against flooding and flood damage. Mr. Restore highly suggests that you meet with your insurance provider to add flood damage to your commercial insurance coverage.
Seal Windows and Other Openings
Commercial properties usually have many windows, doors, and openings outside. These openings allow outside precipitation to leak into the walls, carpet, and equipment, leading to water damage and mold growth. Check to be sure that all openings are properly sealed when closed. If you notice water stains surrounding the opening, it is important that you seal it using a silicone caulk (you can purchase this at your local hardware store.) If you are unsure if your windows or doors are properly sealed, you can check for a draft coming from the opening when closed.
Conduct Frequent Inspections
Commercial properties have a variety of complex systems compared to residential properties. Commercial properties likely have major external components, including HVAC systems, an array of fans and pipes, and large warehouses or utility rooms. Many of these systems are not easily seen during day-to-day activities. In order to prevent water damage to expensive equipment, be sure to conduct frequent inspections. This will also ensure that everything is working properly year-round!
It is vital that you keep your commercial property safe from fire and water damage to keep operating on schedule. If you find your commercial property suffering from fire or water damage, immediately contact Mr. Restore. We have all the equipment needed for commercial-sized restoration projects. The experienced technicians have over 50 years of experience working with commercial properties! We will help your business get back to normal faster.
