What to Do When You Have a Water Leak At Your Business

A water leak in a business space can have devastating consequences if it’s not handled properly. Water leaks create health and safety hazards for employees, clients and customers, and can create long-term damage affecting the integrity of the building. To reduce the risk of irreparable harm being done to the building, there a number of measures one can take when you have a water leak at your business. Let’s explore them.

First, try to contain the leak from its exit point. If there is a drip coming from an elevated position, find a container to catch the running water in the meantime. If possible, set the container slightly above the where the water is landing, as this will help reduce spillage. If the water is leaking at a rapid rate, it may be recommended to set up a drainage tube in the container which can redirect water to a more appropriate location. This can be done by puncturing a hole in the container and connecting a length of tube from the hole to an exit point.  Use a putty knife to spread epoxy around the leaking area to temporarily stop the water flow.

Once the main leak area has been addressed, find your main water supply and turn it off as soon as possible.  Sinks and toilets have their own individual shutoff valves, so if you cannot find the main water supply while one of these items is leaking, the water can still be stopped. If the main water supply cannot be reached to stop the point of leaking, trying using a putty knife to apply epoxy to the leaking area; this may help to temporarily stop the water flow until the main water source can be found.

If the building is flooded, cut off electricity and gas from their main source. This is not as necessary for small leaks or puddles, but it is essential during any significant flooding. It is not recommended to handle electrical after a water leak appliances unless there is proper insulation for each item. If you have to stand in water to turn off the main electricity, consult with an electrician before taking any action. To prevent electrocution, do not use any electrical devices near wet carpeting or flooring. It may be necessary to contact the building owner or superintendent if you do not own the property where the leak has occurred.

In the meantime, start circulating air by operating as many fans as possible in the space and ventilate the area by opening any available windows and doors. Ask any unnecessary people in the area to clear out unless they can assist with any related tasks. Water leaks left unattended to can cause mold to develop, causing health risks to increase. The longer areas are left wet, moist, damp, etc. the easier it is for toxic mold in the environment to thrive.

More work may be required for extensive water damage retained to business spaces. For more information on how to deal with water leak damage, call Matrix Remediation at 1-888-885-8683 or visit www.matrixremediation.com.