05 Dec Critical Tips to Help Prevent Water Damage in Commercial Real Estate Buildings
Even the most well-maintained commercial building can experience water damage. Water intrusion can impact the day to day operations of commercial buildings, causing everything from minor roof leaks to major floods caused by pipe breaks or malfunctioning sprinkler systems. It is vital to regularly conduct risk management assessments like scheduling monthly, quarterly or annual examinations on roofs, windows and other building components. This helps reduce the chance of water damage, as well as a potential business interruption.
Tenants are important to you.
Occupant complaints can often be a sign of imminent building problems. Do you smell mustiness in an area? These types of complaints can often be a sign that something is wrong. It might be worth considering a “Tell Maintenance Drop Box” where residents can easily complain to building management or maintenance.
Every Month, Check the Roof
No matter if your roof is flat or pitched, made of asphalt or composite material, it’s a prime location for water infiltration. Many commercial buildings roofs are overloaded with HVAC equipment, vent pipe, skylights, and other elements of building systems. They are all located in the worst place possible — directly overhead.
Many roofs have billboards and other signage. This zone is especially susceptible to water intrusion because of all the rooftop elements.
- Make sure to inspect all rooftop penetrations from both the inside and outside.
- Are HVAC systems still sealed?
- Are the flashings around skylights, stack vents or other rooftop elements in good order?
- Are roof drains clean and free of debris
- Are you able to see daylight from below?
- Do you see any water spots?
Fire Sprinkler System should be inspected annually and protected against freezing in cold temperatures
Sprinkler system pipes can also be subject to corrosion, just like any water-based system. The system’s functionality can be affected by corrosion, which can lead to leakage. Freezing water can cause pipes to burst, crack or expand. Your sprinkler system pipes should be inspected and tested every year to prevent corrosion. You can prevent freezing by insulate the pipes during winter months.
Check the Windows
Window inspections should be part your risk management plan. Ask yourself these questions:
- Are any units “fogged”, indicating a seal problem?
- Are the weather-stripping devices in place?
- Are exterior flashing and joints in good condition?
Check the Plumbing Systems Monthly
- You can test basement flood control and sump pumps.
- Any leaking fittings and drains should be replaced immediately, even if they seem small.
- Does the irrigation system spray water onto the foundation wall of the house?
- Are the roof drain outlets clean and open?
- Does water run off the foundation from downspouts?
- Investigate the source for any standing water.
Schedule Quarterly Inspections below Grade
The basement walls and floors serve a crucial role in protecting the building against water intrusion. They can also be an indicator of problems above. Make sure to check for signs of effervescence. This is when moisture rises to the concrete surface, as evidenced by flaking mortar and concrete. The basement walls may be the first sign of a leak in the landscape irrigation system.
- Be sure to check the drainage system and basement floor drains.
- You should inspect basement walls for any signs of water damage or staining. Locate the source of any water damage immediately and repair it.