The Business Owner’s Guide to Fixing Tornado Damage

Tornadoes can appear almost without warning and reach speeds of up to 300 miles per hour. When this happens, do you know how to repair the damage to your commercial property?

If your business has suffered damage from a tornado, it can feel overwhelming to figure out how to rebuild. To help get you back on your feet, we’re here with a business owner’s guide to repairing tornado damage.

How to Jump-Start Recovery From Tornado Damage

When your business suffers damage after a tornado, it can cost thousands of dollars to repair.

Although you’ll want to take the time to rebuild so that your business is stronger than before, there are steps you can take to speed up the recovery process.

1. Inspect and Document

When it’s safe to return after the storm, the first thing you’ll want to do is take note of the damage. Document everything by taking photos and video both inside and outside your building.

An important part of this step is to be aware of safety hazards. Take a walk around your business to look for dangers like loose power lines or gas leaks.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company

Once the damage is assessed, you’ll want to contact your insurance provider to begin the claims process. Depending on your provider, you might need to send a written notice of the claim.

If you know that your business housed important documents, this is a good time to take inventory. Did you perform backups before the storm hit? Do you have a document recovery plan in place?

3. Advocate for Assistance

When it’s time to begin repairs, you’ll want to call a reliable tornado damage restoration company that specializes in restoring commercial buildings. Rebuilding your business will be a complicated process, and you’ll feel better when the job is in the hands of professionals who understand your business’ needs.

For severe damage, you might need help funding the restoration process. When this happens, you can advocate for your business and receive funding to rebuild your property.

Key Tips for Staying Safe During Recovery

Inspecting your business property after a tornado can be a chaotic and dangerous experience. To ensure everyone’s safety, you’ll want to take extra precaution while assessing the damage to your building.

Don’t Ignore Your Senses

Even after local officials have declared the area to be safe to enter, you still need to be cautious when inspecting your property. Be aware of your senses and call for help immediately if you notice something wrong.

Problems like loose power lines or structural damage can be a serious risk. You might see a weakened wall or smell gas while inspecting the grounds. If this happens, you’ll want to have a professional team handle the repairs.

Wear Safety Gear

During onsite recovery, it’s important to wear safety gear no matter what your task is. Tornado hazards exist both before and after the event. Because of the danger that tornado damage poses, you’ll be better protected if you always wear a hard hat and proper safety clothing.

Stay Away From Wildlife

Sometimes a wild animal might burrow into the wreckage to find solace after the storm. It might be a hazard that you least suspect, but take care to be aware of any wildlife near your property.

Tornado Preparedness for Business Owners

Tornado preparedness will help you jump-start the recovery process from tornado damage.

Before a storm hits, make sure you have an Emergency Action Plan so that you and your employees know how to protect yourself from a tornado. Take the time to learn how tornadoes start and know the signs a tornado is coming.

You don’t want to get caught in a storm without preparing your business beforehand. Call today to join our preferred list so that you’re in safe hands no matter what happens.

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