How To Minimize the Flood Risk of a Business

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

Flood damage in Levittown, PA area

3 Ways to Reduce the Risk Posed by Flooding

Many businesses and commercial properties run some risk of flood damage. It is important for a building owner to make sure that flood insurance coverage is available, as most standard commercial property insurance policies exclude this peril. Here are three ways for the owners of businesses and buildings to reduce the risk posed by flooding in Levittown, PA.

1. Obtain Flood Coverage

Commercial properties located in flood zones or on flood plains may be required to maintain flood insurance. This additional commercial insurance policy is also advisable for businesses and buildings with an elevated risk of flooding from any source. Damage mitigation and restoration costs can add up to tens of thousands of dollars and this coverage can reduce the amount that a building owner will need to pay out of pocket.

2. Maintain the Structure and Grounds

Maintaining a structure and modifying the surrounding landscape may reduce the likelihood that a structure will flood. A drainage system with clear drains, downspouts and gutters and a working sump pump are effective ways to manage two of the most common flood risks. Grading and rain gardens can direct water away from the foundation of a structure and help to manage run off.

3. Invest In Reusable Sandbag Alternatives

A number of sandbag alternatives are available to enable building and business owners to affordably and easily keep flood water from breaching a building and causing damage. Barrier designs include water-filled cofferdams, modular designs and self-supporting fencing and range in durability and price.

These are three ways to reduce the risk of flooding at a commercial property in Levittown, PA. If flood damage occurs, it may be possible to recoup losses and pay for damage restoration by making a flood insurance claim. All of these measures may increase the likelihood that a claim will be settled quickly and cover most of the damage.