Vandalism can be an upsetting situation for a business to deal with, and even a simple act of vandalism can lead to devastating water damage, fire damage, or mold damage that requires the services of a damage restoration company for cleanup and remediation. Acts of vandalism can range from a petty prank to extensive destruction of property and inventory. Not all vandalism occurs because of malicious intent; for instance, graffiti can be a skilled work of artistic expression, yet the spray paint still has to be removed to comply with city or county ordinances.
Commercial property owners need to be aware of the ways that vandalism can directly or indirectly lead to commercial water damage and fire damage. SERVPRO of Crowley & South Johnson County is highlighting the wider property damage consequences that vandalism can have on a commercial facility.
Broken Windows
When a window is broken, water can intrude into the building. If the window was shattered during rainfall or a thunderstorm, a large amount of water could enter the facility before the property owner or the employees are able to deal with the broken window. Addressing the issue promptly is essential since a makeshift patch or cover for the window may not completely stop water intrusion.
If a broken window does lead to water intrusion, the property owner should engage the services of a restoration company to remediate the water damage. Letting the water pool on the floor or failing to remove all of the moisture increases the possibility of a mold infestation, which could spread to the business’ inventory and lead to expensive losses.
Fire Sprinkler System Vandalism
Like the broken window scenario, a sprinkler system intentionally set off by a vandal can cause water and mold damage, as well as ruined inventory. Data from the American Fire Sprinkler Association reveals that quick response-style sprinklers release around eight to twenty-four gallons of water each minute, creating a deluge for the business owner to deal with.
Arson
Examples of arson include dumpster fires, garbage can fires, and the use of improvised incendiary devices such as Molotov cocktails. Fire damage is frequently accompanied by several other problems, including smoke damage, water damage, and mold damage.
Biohazard Situation
If biohazardous materials come in contact with a commercial facility during an act of vandalism, employees and customers could face serious health risks if the situation is not dealt with quickly and safely. Dangerous contaminants necessitate the services of a cleanup company that is equipped with the proper equipment, personal protective gear, and training to clean the building.
DIY Graffiti Cleanup
After a commercial property is graffitied, the property owner or the employees may attempt to use a pressure washer to remove graffiti. However, this DIY project could end in disaster. People who are not trained in pressure washing techniques might try to clean surfaces that should not be pressure washed, such as windows. As mentioned above, a shattered window can allow water to gush into the building and cause damage.
The Safest Option for Vandalism Cleanup: Hire a Damage Restoration Company
A reputable, professional company will have all the necessary certifications to complete the work and will be properly licensed and insured in order to protect the commercial client from the expenses of litigation.
A rapid response to commercial vandalism helps minimize the scope of any water or fire damage, as well as secondary damage. The team at SERVPRO of Crowley & South Johnson County will jump into action when the client contacts the company for damage restoration and cleanup services. Technicians will quickly clean up vandalism and graffiti and remediate any damage resulting from the act of vandalism. Not only can SERVPRO of Crowley & South Johnson County remove spray paint from exterior walls, but the company can also safely clean a variety of surfaces, including walkways, driveways, asphalt, metal, glass, plastic, wood, and masonry.
SERVPRO of Crowley & South Johnson County offers a comprehensive menu of commercial damage restoration services and can tackle all facets of the restoration project. ServicesCommercial Water, Fire, Mold Damage Restoration Services applicable to commercial vandalism include:
- General cleaning and graffiti removal
- Brick, stone, and concrete cleaning
- Odor removal and deodorization
- Debris removal
- Water damage restoration
- Fire damage restoration
- Mold damage restoration
- Contents cleaning
For more details about commercial damage restoration in Glen Rose, TX, call SERVPRO of Crowley & South Johnson County at (817) 297-8588 or email the office at office@servprocrowley.com.
