Five Common Causes of Commercial Property Water Damages.

1/21/2022 (Permalink)

A commercial property can sustain damage from many sources. Here are the five most common causes of water damage, from a broken pipe to sprinklers, toilets, and drainage, along with tips for mitigation and preventing damage from recurring.

1. Broken Pipes

A pipe break can cause extensive damage in a short period of time. Shut off the water and contact a plumber for water repair. An owner may also want to call a damage mitigation company and notify the insurance company. Even if a broken pipe is not a covered peril, the damage that it causes should be covered.

2. Fire Sprinklers

Sprinkler systems can accidentally activate or leak. Unless there is a fire, an owner or manager should shut off the water and contact the sprinkler company. Have sprinklers regularly inspected and maintained to prevent accidental activation.

3. Toilet Overflow

Toilet backups and overflows are caused by sewer blockages, supply line issues, or broken components. In addition to regular maintenance, a facility manager may want to post signage about which materials should not be flushed and provide trash containers in stalls.

4. Sewer Backups

A sewer backup may be caused by a blockage in the line from a building or in municipal mains. Either way, it is important that a commercial building have a functional sump pump. Some structures may also have a back flow valve. Test flood prevention systems on a regular basis.

5. Ineffective Drainage

A drainage system should be cleared at least twice a year. The landscape should also be graded to direct runoff away from the building. An owner may want to have landscaping modified to prevent flooding.

These are the most common causes of water damage to commercial buildings in Far North Dallas. 

If a broken pipe or any other system results in damage, the owner or facility manager should contact a mitigation and restoration company.