Brisbane has experienced a lot of rain this season, which has unfortunately led to some damage to commercial properties around town. Year-round, properties are at risk from damaging weather including cyclones, hail storms, and torrential rain. Commercial buildings, like any other properties, are subject to costly weather-related damage, which is why it’s important to prioritize prevention work when it comes to maintenance.
In this blog, we highlight how to prevent water damage to your commercial property, and the risks associated with it.
Risks of water damage to your commercial property
It comes as no surprise that businesses will face devastating repair costs if they are to be hit by water damage. Businesses may face costly insurance claims along with loss of property value and damage to equipment if it occurs. Here are some of these risks in more detail:
Structural failure
Your building structure is made up of many vital components. While some of these are obvious, such as the concrete or steel, there are other parts that are not always immediately obvious, such as the plumbing and electrical systems. These components require regular maintenance in order to keep them working effectively. If your building structure is damaged due to water damage, it’s likely these vital systems will be affected.
Leaks
Leaks are not always apparent when they happen, and this makes it more challenging to get the repairs needed to prevent any further damage. Leaking water can lead to your ceiling tiles breaking apart and falling off, as well as deterioration to the walls and floors.
Loss of property value
If your building is damaged by water, it can be a costly task to get it repaired. This could lead to a loss of property value
Most of the above risks can be avoided by keeping a close eye on your property and making sure you’re doing routine maintenance work.
Here’s how to prevent bad weather damage to your property
1. Inspecting your property regularly
Ideally, you should check your property regularly to prevent leaks. Look at the drain pipes and roofing and make note of any loose tiles or fixtures on the property’s balconies or terraces. Some other signs include damp patches on internal walls or ceilings, water collecting around the base of the building, stains, and moss on walls, and deterioration to masonry.
2. Invest in good waterproofing
It’s best to have waterproofing installed at the time of construction. However, if you discover water damage, it’s possible to get repairs done by getting a professional to do it for you. Good waterproofing will help to prevent the foundation, walls, and other important areas from sustaining damage during heavy rain, cyclones and other storm events.
3. Clean your gutters regularly
Gutters are important because they help to control water flow into your property and direct it only into the drains. This is why it’s important to clean them regularly with a hose to remove any leaves, dirt, and debris. If your property is faced with water damage, do not overlook gutters as they can become clogged or damaged through heavy rain.
By taking preventative measures, you’ll prevent any damage from occurring in the first place, which will save you from having to deal with expensive repairs and loss of property value. Scheduled maintenance helps avoid any hidden surprises and therefore any unforeseen costs. At Commercial Solutions, we can be on site and carry out your maintenance whenever it best suits your business. Call us to discuss the options for your business or property!