Getting Your Business Back on Track After a Winter Storm

9/20/2024 (Permalink)

If you need help with storm damage restoration, contact our SERVPRO team today. We’re here to support you through every step of the process!

Winter storms can be tough on businesses in Warwick, RI. The aftermath can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but knowing the steps to take can make all the difference. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you recover quickly and effectively after a winter storm.

Assessing the Damage

Before you can start repairing, you need to understand the extent of the damage. Here are the steps to take immediately after the storm.

Conduct a Thorough Inspection

After the storm has passed, the first thing you should do is assess the damage. Check your property both inside and outside for any signs of damage. Look for broken windows, roof damage, water leaks, and structural issues. Make sure to take lots of photos and detailed notes of what you find. This documentation will be crucial for your insurance claim.

Prioritize Safety

Safety should always come first. Before diving into cleanup, ensure your property is safe to enter. Watch out for hazards like exposed electrical wires, gas leaks, and unstable structures. If there’s any doubt about safety, it’s best to wait for professional help to ensure no one gets hurt.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Once you have a clear understanding of the damage, it's time to get your insurance involved. Here's how to handle the process efficiently.

Report the Damage

Once you’ve documented the damage, get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the photos and notes you took during your inspection. The sooner you report, the quicker your claim can be processed, which means you can start repairs sooner.

Understand Your Coverage

It’s important to understand what your insurance policy covers. Review your policy to know what is covered and what isn’t. Talk to your insurance representative about the next steps and what additional information they need from you to process your claim efficiently.

Clean Up and Make Temporary Repairs

Before you can make permanent repairs, some immediate actions need to be taken to prevent further damage. Here's what you should do.

Start with Water Removal

If your business has experienced flooding, start by removing any standing water. Use pumps, wet vacuums, and dehumidifiers to dry out the affected areas. According to FEMA, mold can start to grow within 24-48 hours, so it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further issues.

Remove Debris

Once the water is under control, clear out any debris caused by the storm, such as broken glass and fallen branches. Make sure to wear protective gear to avoid injury during the cleanup process.

Make Temporary Repairs

If you have broken windows or roof leaks, make temporary fixes to prevent further damage. Cover broken windows with plywood and use tarps to cover any roof damage. These temporary measures will help protect your property until permanent repairs can be made.

Hire Professional Restoration Services

Sometimes the damage is too extensive to handle on your own. Here's why you should consider professional help.

Call SERVPRO®

For serious damage, it’s best to bring in the professionals. SERVPRO of East Greenwich/Warwick/Cranston specializes in storm damage restoration and can handle everything from water removal to structural repairs. We have the right tools and expertise to get your business back to normal quickly and efficiently.

Get an Estimate

Ask for an estimate and a detailed plan of action from the professionals. This will help you understand the scope of work and the timeline for getting your business back up and running.

Restore Essential Services

Getting your basic utilities back online is critical to resuming normal business operations. Here’s what to focus on.

Check Electrical Systems

Ensure that your electrical systems are safe and functional. If there is flooding, have a licensed electrician inspect and repair any damage before turning the power back on. This will prevent any electrical hazards or further damage.

Restore Communication Lines

Make sure your phone and internet services are restored as quickly as possible. Communication is crucial for coordinating with employees, customers, and vendors. Ensuring these services are up and running will help you get back to business more smoothly.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Recovering from a winter storm can be challenging, but with the right steps, you can get your business back on track quickly. Start by assessing the damage, contacting your insurance company, and making temporary repairs. Don’t forget to update your emergency plans and invest in preventive measures to protect your business in the future. If you need help with storm damage restoration, contact SERVPRO of East Greenwich/Warwick/Cranston today. We’re here to support you through every step of the recovery process.