Water damage in a commercial setting disrupts schedules and slows down business. When it happens in a 50,000 square-foot warehouse, the logistics are especially challenging.
Complications range from water-damaged interiors, inventory and equipment to delays in receiving and shipping. As the warehouse manager or owner, you want to be prepared.
Our guide is designed to help you navigate the aftermath of a water emergency at your facility. We cover how it happens, what you need to do first and how to manage warehouse water damage cleanup.
Let’s start now.
Key Takeaways
- If your warehouse experienced water damage, first identify and address the water source, inspect and assess the damage, document the damage for insurance purposes, contact your insurance, and call restoration professionals like ServiceMaster of Lake Shore for further help: 312-707-8597
- Some of the most common causes of warehouse water damage include leaks, HVAC issues, equipment failures, plumbing problems, and natural events.
- To prevent future water damage, perform routine maintenance of the water supply system and annual inspections by professionals, upgrade old pipes, install check valves, keep exterior drainage systems in good shape, and have contingency plans for severe weather events.
What Causes Water Damage in Warehouses?
The water systems that keep a warehouse running are part of a large network of connecting lines, pipes and drains. When something fails, the source of warehouse damage from water can be traced back to one of these problems.
• Undetected leaks inside the building envelope that spread downward through walls and ceilings
• Leaking HVAC condensate lines, collector boxes, evaporator drain tanks or heat exchangers
• Warehouse equipment failures, including refrigerator units, fill stations and water heaters
• Plumbing problems caused by clogged or broken supply lines or drainage pipes
• Accidental fire sprinkler activation due to corrosion, worn parts or exposure to freezing temperatures
• Sewage line backups resulting from wastewater line failure or storm flooding
• Main water line breaks caused by foundation shift, soil erosion or heavy construction nearby
• Natural events, such as severe storms, heavy snow melts or river flooding
• Warehouse water damage resulting from fire fighting efforts by first responders