Dealing With Bursts Pipes in Your Business

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

A burst pipe can cause extreme damage, both during leakage and its aftermath.

There are a few telltale signs that can indicate a burst water pipe in a commercial building. If you notice any of the following, be sure to contact a professional as soon as possible: 

• Water leaking from walls or ceilings
• Sudden increase in water bills for no obvious reason
• Damp spots on walls or ceilings
• Mold growth
• Noises coming from the pipes, such as gurgling or hissing sounds
• Turn Off the Water

Water can be turned off to a commercial building in a variety of ways, but the most common way is to turn off the main water line. This can be done by finding the main water shut-off valve and turning it either clockwise or counter-clockwise (depending on the make and model of your valve).

If you can't find the main water shut-off valve, then you'll need to go to each individual floor and find the stop valves for each set of bathrooms, kitchens, etc. Each stop valve has a specific purpose (e.g., hot water, cold water, sprinkler system) so be sure to turn off the right one!

Be Sure to Remove Electronics

Water and electronics don't mix, so it's important to remove all electronic equipment from the vicinity of a burst pipe. If water gets into the circuitry, it can cause short-circuiting and serious damage. In addition, if the power is still on while water is present, you could be risking an electrical fire.

That's why we recommend removing all computers and other electronics away from the vicinity of a burst pipe - to protect both the equipment and the building.

How To Help Staff Know to Stay Away

If you are an employee and see water spilling out from under a door or see puddles near an outlet, do not enter the area. You may think it's just a little water, but there could be electrical current running through it. If you see sparks or any other evidence of electricity, do not enter the area and immediately report the situation to your supervisor. Even if it doesn't look like there is any danger, always assume that there is and avoid the area. Water and electricity don't mix!

Contact Your Insurance Company for Damages

It's important to contact your commercial insurance company as soon as possible after a pipe burst in order to minimize the damage and ensure you are covered. A burst pipe can lead to serious water damage, costing thousands of dollars in repairs. By contacting your insurer as soon as possible, you can speed up the process of getting your claim approved and start repairs quickly.

How To Help Dry the Area Quickly

There are a few key things you can do to help dry the area out quickly and minimize the damage. First, try to remove any excess water or moisture as quickly as possible. Use a wet vac or towels to soak up any standing water. If the area is carpeted, use a shop vac to suck up any moisture in the padding and under the carpet. 

Then, if possible, open all of the windows and doors in the area to allow it to air out. Turn on fans or heaters to help speed up the drying process. You can also use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air. Finally, if you have access to them, use industrial-strength fans or heaters to help dry the area out.

Call SERVPRO ASAP

If you suffer from burst pipes, it's important to call a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO. They have the experience and expertise to handle the aftermath of a burst pipe, including extracting any water, drying out the area, and repairing any damage that's been done. Plus, they can help you with insurance claims and get your home back to normal as quickly as possible.