Water can seriously damage property. But while the cost of fixing water damage can be very expensive, you can take preventative measures to protect your business property from heavy rain and flooding.

To learn more about property inspections and water damage prevention, download our free tip sheet!

Water damage prevention techniques

1. Research information:

Your municipality’s website might have information on flood and sewer back-up prevention programs, whose costs may be tax-deductible.

2. Sewer back-up prevention:

  • Disconnect weeping tiles and install a backwater valve and sump pump.
  • Make sure there’s a secondary energy source (battery or generator) for your sump pump in case of power failure.
  • Detach the foundation drain from the sanitary sewer.
  • Disconnect the eaves troughs and foundation drains from the sewer system.

3. Waterproof buildings and structures:

a) Regularly inspect your roof and eaves troughs to make sure:

  • They don’t leak and aren’t blocked by leaves or other debris.
  • Downspouts extend at least 1.8 meters (6 feet) from your commercial property.
  • There aren’t any water stain marks, cracks, or other penetrations.
  • Seals are intact around HVAC systems.
  • The flashing around skylights, chimneys or other rooftop elements are in good condition.
  • Any roof electric fixtures like satellites, wiring and solar panels are waterproof and in good condition.

b) Regularly inspect walls and windows to make sure:

  • The flashing and sealant of walls is stable.
  • There’s no sign of water penetration or mould at major wall joints, windows, doors, or other entrances.
  • Window joints and flashings are stable.
  • Weep holes aren’t clogged.
  • Window glass is sealed properly.
  • All locks, cranks and other mechanical elements are functioning.
  • Interior walls around windows are free of mould and water.
  • There’s no water or moisture build-up where walls meet the ground (flaking concrete is a sign of this).

c) Check basements:

  • For mould, water staining, and cracks on walls.
  • To make sure drainage systems are working properly.
  • Avoid carpet in the basement since it retains water and is harder to clean up in the event of flooding.

d) Plumbing:

  • Inspect all plumbing systems regularly.
  • Repair any leaking fixtures or joints.
  • Make sure irrigation systems aren’t spraying water on foundation walls.

e) Exterior:

  • Fixtures attached to the exterior of your business property should be waterproofed.
  • Drain any standing water.
  • Increase the amount of green plants and shrubs around your property to help absorb rainwater and melted snow.

f) Interior:

  • Inventory should be kept off the ground in water and air proof containers wherever possible.
  • Dispose of cooking oil and grease in your green bin and not down the drain, which can block your drainage system.
  • Avoid flushing items down the toilet that can block your sanitary pipe, such as non-biodegradable products.
  • Regularly inspect basements or other flood-prone areas.

By taking these preventative steps, you can spend less time worrying and more time focusing on your business, no matter what Mother Nature brings your way! To learn more about flooding prevention, visit our blog.

This blog is provided for information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information and will not be responsible for any loss arising out of reliance on the information.