How to Protect Commercial Property During a Flood Warning

A flood warning means flooding is imminent or already happening. Your first move is to protect people: move everyone to higher ground and avoid walking or driving through floodwater. Then focus on your property, starting with the most valuable and hardest-to-replace items.

Time is limited, so prioritize. Move computers, servers, important documents, and inventory to upper floors or elevated storage. If you have portable equipment, unplug it and move it away from windows and low areas. If you have time, place sandbags or barriers at doorways and loading docks to slow water entry.

Water often enters through doors, windows, vents, and cracks in the foundation. Use sandbags, flood barriers, or plastic sheeting to block these openings. Pay special attention to basement windows and low-lying entryways, which are common weak points.

Clear gutters, downspouts, and drains of debris so water can flow away from your building. Move outdoor equipment, trash bins, and anything that could float and cause damage to higher ground or secure them. If you have a sump pump, make sure it is working and has a backup power source.

Place sandbags at all exterior doors and loading docks.

Seal basement windows with plastic sheeting and tape.

Move outdoor furniture, signs, and equipment inside or tie them down.

Clear debris from gutters, downspouts, and storm drains.

Test sump pumps and ensure they have battery backup.

Raise important electrical outlets and switches above likely flood levels.

After the water recedes, safety is the priority. Do not enter a flooded building until authorities say it is safe. Watch for structural damage, downed power lines, and gas leaks. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure to floodwater, which may contain contaminants.

Once it is safe, start the cleanup process quickly to reduce mold and structural damage. Remove standing water and begin drying the structure. Contact local water damage pros for help with extraction, drying, and repairs, especially for commercial buildings where downtime is costly. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Take photos of all damage before cleanup.

Remove water with pumps or wet vacuums.

Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the space.

Discard porous materials that soaked up floodwater.

Watch for mold growth and address it promptly.

Contact your insurance company to file a claim.