In Florida, where we at ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief, like many others, operate our business, we know all too well the wrath of hurricane season. Year after year, we witness the raw power of these storms and the profound impact they can have on our commercial properties. It’s with this first-hand knowledge and deep-rooted care for our fellow business owners that we pen down the details about how hurricanes affect our commercial properties in the Sunshine State and the role of effective damage restoration processes.
Hurricane Facts
- When we talk about hurricanes, we are referring to one of the most destructive natural phenomena known to mankind. These turbulent storms are known for causing widespread destruction to both property and infrastructure, with coastal areas like Florida often bearing the brunt of their fury.
- Since the commencement of record-keeping in 1851, Florida has been struck by 110 hurricanes, according to the National Hurricane Center report titled "U.S. Mainland Hurricane Strikes by State, 1851-2004," which is more than any other state in the U.S. This number has gone up to over 120 in 2022.
Why is My Commercial Property at Risk?
Commercial properties, by virtue of their size and complex structure, are particularly susceptible to hurricane-related damage. The adverse effects aren’t confined to the immediate impact of the hurricane alone. The aftermath is equally severe, bringing with it flooding, fires, mold growth, and a host of structural damages.
As per the data from the Insurance Information Institute, in 2022, the insured losses from natural disasters, including hurricanes in the U.S, amounted to $98.885 billion, while economic losses (which “includes any direct physical damage or direct net loss business interruption costs”) amounted to $164.879 billion.
Hurricanes can affect commercial properties in a lot of ways. Some of these are:
Structural Damage
Hurricanes can cause severe structural damage to commercial properties. This can include damage to roofs, walls, windows, and other structural elements due to the intense winds and heavy rain.
Flooding
Hurricanes often bring substantial rain and, if near the coast, storm surges. This can lead to extensive flooding, which can damage both the structure of a property and the contents within it.
Power Outages
The strong winds and heavy rainfall associated with hurricanes often lead to widespread power outages. This can halt operations in a commercial property and lead to losses.
Fire Risks
Hurricanes can increase the risk of fire. Lightning during the storm, downed power lines, or even gas leaks caused by the hurricane’s damage can lead to fires.
Business Interruption
Hurricanes can lead to extended periods of business interruption. This is due to both the immediate impact of the hurricane and the time needed for recovery and restoration afterward.
Mold Growth
Post-hurricane, the increased moisture and potential for water intrusion can lead to mold growth, which can further damage the property and impact indoor air quality.
Infrastructure and Access Impact
Hurricanes can damage surrounding infrastructure (roads, bridges, etc.), which can limit access to a commercial property, hindering recovery efforts and affecting supply chains.
That's Tough. How Do I Prevent Hurricane Damage to My Business?
- Risk Assessment. Conduct a thorough risk assessment of your commercial property to identify potential vulnerabilities. This could include checking for loose shingles, vulnerable windows, or areas prone to flooding.
- Create a Disaster Plan. A comprehensive disaster plan will detail the steps your business will take before, during, and after a hurricane. This should include procedures for securing physical assets, backing up data, and maintaining communication with employees and customers.
- Secure Physical Assets. Before a hurricane arrives, ensure that your property is physically prepared. This could involve installing storm shutters, reinforcing doors, moving equipment and inventory to higher floors to avoid flood damage, or securing loose objects that could become projectiles.
- Insurance Coverage. Make sure your business has adequate insurance coverage for hurricane-related damages. This may include property insurance, flood insurance, and business interruption insurance.
- Data Protection. Back up your business's critical data regularly and store it in a safe, off-site location. This ensures that important files can be recovered in case physical records are damaged or destroyed.
- Prepare Employees. Ensure that employees are aware of your disaster plan and provide training on emergency procedures. Communication is key during a crisis, so have a system in place to keep in touch with your team.
- Contract with a Restoration Company. Establish a relationship with a commercial large loss restoration company in Oldsmar, FL before a hurricane strikes. In the aftermath of a hurricane, restoration companies are heavily in demand, and having a pre-established relationship can ensure a quicker response time. Companies like ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief can provide an immediate response after a disaster, helping to minimize damage and begin recovery efforts as quickly as possible.
REMEMBER: no plan can guarantee complete prevention of hurricane damage in Oldsmar, Florida, but these steps can significantly help reduce potential losses and speed up recovery time after a disaster.
Get in Touch With Oldsmar Property Damage Restoration Experts
ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (813) 295-7797. Customers can also contact us online. We are here to help you navigate through these challenging times!
ServiceMaster by Disaster Relief stands as a trusted name when it comes to all forms of property damage restoration in Oldsmar, including commercial large loss and fire damage restoration. Our team of skilled professionals is equipped to provide swift and efficient services, ensuring your business can bounce back to its pre-disaster operational state as quickly as possible. Give us a call today.
