Category Archives: Storm Damage Cleanup

Why Every Commercial Property Needs a Disaster Response Plan

June 19, 2025

In Florida, June marks the official start of hurricane season, and if you own or manage a commercial property, waiting until the first storm forms is already too late. The risks to your building, business continuity, and tenants start to increase drastically when you don’t have a proactive disaster response plan set in place. From high winds and flying debris to flash floods and long-term water intrusion, this amount of damage can start to build up quickly. This is exactly why water damage restoration services are most in demand right after a major storm, but by then, you will be competing against everyone else who didn’t prepare. Here are a couple of reasons why you should act now, if you haven’t already, and how your business can stay ahead of the storm.

Hurricane Season Is Predictable, But the Damage Isn’t

We know that the Atlantic hurricane season runs about from June 1st through November 30th, but still, every year, businesses find themselves scrambling for help after the fact. While storms are seasonal, the damage they leave, especially water damage, can happen quickly, spread widely, and be devastating to commercial properties. Flooded lobbies, soaked drywall, damaged HVAC systems, and electrical issues are just the beginning. Without having a good plan, the time it takes to respond can be all the difference between minor damage and a full-scale water damage restoration project.

Commercial Properties Face Higher Stakes

As opposed to residential properties, commercial buildings generally have multiple tenants, high value inventory, or essential equipment. By having any delay in response, it can end up leading to business closures, legal liabilities, or expensive repairs. Because of this, having a disaster response plan isn’t just a good practice, it’s risk management. It helps your tenants and stakeholders rest assured that you take preparedness seriously and helps guarantee that water damage restoration and mitigation start immediately after a storm, not days or weeks later.

Pre-Storm Assessments Can Prevent Damage

Not all storm damage is unavoidable. Loose roof flashing, clogged drainage systems, and poor grading around a foundation might seem like small issues, but they can actually lead to major flooding. Pre-storm assessments give us the opportunity to find these risks ahead of time and help prevent the need for emergency water damage restoration down the road.

Insurance Claims Move Faster With Documentation

A big part of a commercial disaster response plan includes detailed documentation before and after a loss. This helps speed up insurance claims and lessen disputes over the extent of the damage. The faster your claim is resolved, the quicker your repairs, and your business, can continue.

Be Ready Before the Storm Hits

June will be here before you know it. Don’t let your commercial property be caught off guard this hurricane season. Partner with a local company that knows Sarasota, understands the unique risks, and is ready to move quickly when disaster strikes. At Action Restoration, we specialize in helping businesses prepare, respond, and recover with complete water damage restoration services created to reduce downtime and protect your investment.

Ready to get prepared? Contact us today for any disaster response needs!

Hurricanes, Storm Damage Cleanup, Uncategorized

Update Your Disaster Response Plan for 2025

January 24, 2025

As we’ve started this new year, it is the best time for businesses to just a moment to pause and consider resetting their disaster preparedness. For companies in the Gulf Coast region, the unpredictable nature of storms, floods, and other natural disasters means that having a comprehensive and updated disaster response plan is essential. Whether you’re dealing with water damage from a sudden flood, a fire that interrupts your operations, or a mold outbreak because of excess moisture, guaranteeing that your response plan is up to date can make all the difference when disaster happens.

The Importance of Annual Disaster Plan Reviews

Disaster response plans are not documents you just have and forget about. The reality is that disasters are always always changing, which means your response strategy should be as well. By going over your disaster response plan and updating it each year, you guarantee that your business is always ready for the unexpected. Here are a few reasons why updating your disaster plan in 2025 is crucial:

Changes in Risk Factors

Each year, your business might face new risks based on environmental changes, new construction projects in your area, or changing weather patterns. Your response plan should factor in these evolving risks, guaranteeing that water damage is addressed, and emergency procedures are in place.

Advancements in Technology

The technology used for disaster preparedness and recovery continues to advance. Adding in new tools like real time weather tracking can significantly improve the effectiveness of your response, lessening the overall impact of floods and leaks on your property.

Staff Changes and Training

Employee turnover is a natural part of any business, and new staff might not be familiar with your disaster response plan. Consistently updating your plan guarantees that all employees are correctly trained and familiar with their roles in the event of a disaster.

New Regulations and Compliance Requirements

Laws and regulations consistently change, and businesses need to make sure that their disaster preparedness strategies work with the latest standards. Making sure to consistently look over and update your disaster plan guarantees that your business stays compliant, which can help with insurance claims and avoid penalties during an emergency.

How to Update Your Disaster Response Plan

Now that we’ve established why it’s so important to update your disaster response plan in 2025, let’s walk through the steps you can take to guarantee that your business is ready for any disaster, especially water-related incidents:

Conduct a Comprehensive Risk Assessment

Start by evaluating the risks your business faces in the upcoming year. For businesses in Florida and the Gulf Coast, flooding is a significant concern, especially during hurricane season. Even if you’re not in a flood zone, heavy rains can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to water damage. A thorough assessment helps you identify the areas most vulnerable to water damage and other disasters, guaranteeing your response plan is tailored to your specific needs.

Create a Water Damage Restoration Plan

Water damage is one of the most common forms of property damage caused by storms, broken pipes, or flooding. It can be especially devastating if not addressed quickly. Ensure that your disaster plan includes a detailed water damage restoration process, like:

Immediate Actions: Steps for employees to take when water damage is noticed, like turning off water sources, moving critical equipment, and documenting the damage.
Professional Help: Find and list trusted water damage restoration companies, like Action Restoration, who can respond quickly with the needed equipment to alleviate the damage and start the restoration process.
Insurance Protocols: Make sure your insurance covers water damage and that you know the next steps for filing a claim. Keep a record of valuable property and infrastructure for insurance purposes.

Create a Communication Strategy

During a disaster, clear communication is ideal. Make sure to update your emergency contact list, and make sure that communication protocols are straightforward. Additionally, having an emergency communication plan for when the power is out can be crucial.

Update Evacuation and Safety Procedures

Every business should have an established evacuation plan, especially in the event of dangerous weather. Ensure that your disaster response plan has a straightforward outline of the steps employees need to take in case of flooding or other disasters. Consistently scheduling drills and practices sessions can make employees feel more confident and prepared when the real event happens.

As we walk into 2025, don’t wait for disaster to happen before reviewing your disaster response plan. Start the year off by guaranteeing your plan is updated, easy to understand, and effective. Water damage restoration is one of the most important aspects of disaster recovery, especially for businesses in the Gulf Coast region where flooding is a real concern. By updating your disaster response plan each year, you can guarantee your business is ready for any disaster. If you’re unsure about where to start, contact Action Restoration for needed guidance in creating a plan that includes quick and efficient water damage restoration solutions.

By regularly updating your disaster response plan, your business will be prepared to handle whatever challenges 2025 throws your way. Here’s to a safe, prepared, and successful new year!

Hurricanes, Storm Damage Cleanup, Water Restoration

Home Fire & Water Damage: How To Apply for Insurance Coverage

March 5, 2024

When fire or water causes catastrophic damage to your property, one of the first things you’ll need to do is file a claim with your insurance provider. Ensuring your property has the coverage it needs is essential. Otherwise, you could get stuck paying out of pocket for restoration expenses.

In this blog post, the experts at Action Restoration discuss the processes involved with filing an insurance claim following fire or water damage so you can confidently navigate the process and get the coverage you need.

If your property has recently experienced fire or water damage, contact Action Restoration at (800) 218-9556 to speak with our property restoration specialists about your options.

The Insurance Claim Filing Process

Filing an insurance claim following a fire or flood can seem daunting, but it’s a fairly simple and streamlined process. Here’s what to expect:

Filing an Insurance Claim for Fire Damage

To file a claim for fire damage, start by contacting your insurance company as soon as the damage occurs. Gather as much evidence as possible, including photographs, videos, and inventory lists of damaged or lost items.

Before reaching out, carefully review your policy coverage to understand limits and exclusions and prepare any necessary documentation, including receipts or appraisals. An investigation may be necessary by the insurance company to process your claim.

Insurance Claims for Water Damage

Similar to filing a claim for fire damage, the process will start with a call to your insurance company. Water damage coverage typically has greater limitations, so it’s important to be aware of these before contacting your insurer.

For example, homeowners’ insurance typically covers water from above, such as rain or burst pipes, but flood coverage usually requires an additional rider or separate policy.

The insurance company will send an adjuster to assess the extent of the damage and decide how much (if any) of the damage is covered under your policy.

Filing Your Insurance Claim for Storm Damage

When filing a storm damage insurance claim, contact the insurance provider immediately to report the damage and begin the claims process. Document the damage thoroughly, just as you would with fire or water damage, and make any temporary repairs required to prevent further damage, as your insurer recommends.

Expect the insurance company to send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine coverage eligibility, and be prepared to provide additional documentation or information they may require during their evaluation and subsequent claims processing.

How Action Restoration Can Help

If your Texas home or business has been affected by a fire, flood, or storm damage, Action Restoration can help. With nearly 100 disaster response professionals available to assist with your property damage, we’re uniquely equipped to address your restoration needs, including offering guidance through the insurance claims process.

If, for whatever reason, you don’t have coverage, our team can work with you to get the restoration services you need ASAP, offering flexible financing solutions to help get your life back to normal fast without breaking the bank.

Nobody does more to get you back in business after a catastrophe, flood, or microbial threat. Call (800) 218-9556 to get the property restoration solutions you need today.

Hurricanes, Storm Damage Cleanup

How To Prepare for Hurricane Season

June 30, 2023

As we head into the summer months, we also head into hurricane season. Hurricanes can bring catastrophic effects on our homes, businesses, and lives. While these natural disasters are unavoidable, the damage they cause doesn’t have to be.

With proper planning and preparation, we can significantly mitigate the impact of these storms and ensure the safety and security of our properties. Here’s how to prepare for hurricane season this summer.

Before a Hurricane Hits

Hurricanes, with their mix of wind and torrential rain, can be formidable opponents. However, when we take proactive measures, we can considerably lessen their impact on our homes and lives. Preparation is our first line of defense. By getting ready ahead of time, you can safeguard not just your property but also ensure the safety and well-being of your family. Here’s how you can brace yourself and take preemptive action before the storm:

Stay informed: Sign up for local alerts and warnings, and stay updated on the storm’s progress.
Prepare a ‘Go Bag’: Have a bag ready with essentials like clothes, medications, and important documents, in case you need to evacuate quickly.
Review insurance policies: Make sure your insurance coverage is adequate for possible damages.
Assemble a disaster relief kit: This should include food, water, first aid supplies, batteries, and flashlights.
Secure your property: From cataloging your belongings to securing outdoor items and shuttering windows, take steps to minimize potential damage.
Address the ‘5 S’s’: These include securing shutters, soffits, shingles, surroundings, and seals.
Know your evacuation route: Familiarize yourself with the recommended evacuation routes in your area.

A proactive approach to hurricane safety can turn a potential disaster into a manageable event.

During a Hurricane

The onset of a hurricane can feel overwhelming. However, even during the storm, there are critical steps you can take to stay safe and protect your loved ones.

During these challenging moments, your prior planning can truly pay off, guiding your actions and helping you navigate the storm. The key is to remain calm, focused, and attentive to the evolving situation. When a hurricane strikes, follow these guidelines:

Listen to local authorities: Follow the guidance and advice of local authorities.
Evacuate if necessary: If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Seek shelter: Stay away from windows and seek shelter on the lowest level in an interior room.
Avoid flooded roads: Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through water.
Call 911: If you’re in a life-threatening situation, call for emergency support right away.

Facing a hurricane can be frightening, but follow these guidelines, and you’ll be in the best position to weather the storm safely.

After a Hurricane

When the winds have died down and the hurricane has moved on, you will need to move to recovery and clean up. While it can be challenging, here are the first steps toward restoring normalcy to your life and your home.

Post-hurricane, your safety remains the top concern. As you begin the process of assessing the damage and cleaning up, here’s a set of guidelines to help you navigate this phase:

Safety first: Avoid entering buildings until they’ve been inspected, stay away from power lines, and don’t use electrical equipment if it’s wet or you’re standing in water.
Don’t take risks: If the power is out, make sure to use flashlights instead of candles.
Discard spoiled food: Throw away any food that wasn’t maintained at a proper temperature or has been exposed to floodwaters.
Boil water: Don’t drink tap water until you know it’s safe and clean.
Cleanup and disinfection: Clean and disinfect everything that got wet during the hurricane.
Airing out: Open doors and windows to air out your home and other buildings.
Dry out: Get rid of saturated porous materials, like mattresses or upholstered furniture. Tear out flooring, paneling, drywall, insulation, and electrical outlets that got wet.
Hire professionals: Use professional services for water damage assessments, structural drying, mold removal, and reconstruction.

By taking these steps, you’ll be well on your way to recovering from the storm.

Count On Action Restoration During Hurricane Season

No one can prevent a hurricane, but we can lessen its impact with careful preparation and response. This is where the team at Action Restoration comes in. We are committed to helping you navigate through hurricane season. Our team of experts provides comprehensive services, from pre-storm planning to post-storm recovery and restoration.

With our expertise, you can rest assured that your property is in capable hands. We understand hurricanes’ unique challenges and have the resources and skills to address them efficiently.

Get prepared now and give yourself peace of mind knowing you’ve done everything possible to protect your home or business.

For expert hurricane restoration, count on Action Restoration. Call us at (800) 218-9556 to schedule your restoration service today.

Hurricanes, Storm Damage Cleanup, Water Restoration

How to Prepare for a Hurricane in Peak Season

August 30, 2017

Hurricane Preparation on the Gulf Coast

aerial view of neighborhood underwater homes and cars plants flooded

If you live on the Gulf Coast, you already know that hurricane season is in full swing. Unfortunately, many homes within our service area in Texas sustained significant damage from Hurricane Harvey, which made landfall on August 26 in Rockport, Texas (note: if you need disaster response or water restoration services due to damage from Hurricane Harvey, call us immediately at (800) 218-9556).

Although hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, August through October is the peak of the season. During these months the water temperature of the gulf is at its peak. Combine that with low wind shear and strong wave formation in the Atlantic, and you’ve got a recipe for powerful, damaging hurricanes.

If you were lucky enough not to be affected by Hurricane Harvey, don’t breathe a sigh of relief just yet. Harvey should serve as a sobering reminder that we can never be too prepared for a storm—and sometimes, the best choice is to evacuate.

August-October Hurricane Facts from 1950-2013

Nine out of the 10 deadliest hurricanes
97 percent of Category 5 storms
100 percent of the 10 costliest hurricanes in the U.S.
79 percent of all named storms
88 percent of all hurricanes
95 percent of major hurricanes

The devastating hurricanes of Katrina, Andrew, Camille, and now Harvey all occurred in mid to late August while the 1900 Galveston Labor Day storm made landfall on September 8th and claimed an estimated 8,000 lives.

With these sobering facts in mind, now is the time to make the necessary preparations to protect your Gulf Coast home or business from the ravages of a hurricane. Although no amount of preparation will guarantee that your home or business will avoid hurricane damage, you can take measures to lessen your monetary loss and, most importantly, save your life.

Hurricane Preparation Checklist

Follow these basic steps to ensure you and your family are ready when a hurricane strikes your Gulf Coast community:

Assemble a Disaster Relief Kit – Store the following in waterproof, airtight containers: drinking water, non-perishable food, first aid kit, flashlights, extra batteries, basic tools, local maps, manual can opener, and a battery-operated or hand-crank radio for weather alerts.

Prepare Your Home – If you have enough time before the hurricane makes landfall, take the following steps to reduce damage to your home: secure outdoor items (patio furniture, bicycles, etc.) inside the home or garage; close and shutter all windows and doors (use plywood if you don’t have hurricane shutters); unplug small appliances; and turn your refrigerator and freezer to the highest setting to keep food safe if you lose power.

Know Your Evacuation Route – If government officials issue a mandatory evacuation order, make sure you’re familiar with your route to drive inland to safety. Decide in advance where you want to go. You may also choose to go to an approved shelter in your community. Make plans for your pets, and discuss with your family where you will meet before leaving home.

Hurricane Damage Repair on the Gulf Coast

If your home or business sustains hurricane damage, Action Restoration is here to help. We offer a wide variety of services designed to get your home or business back on track after a hurricane strikes. We specialize in flood and wind damage repair, including water extraction, structural drying, contents restoration, and much more. We also offer 24/7 emergency disaster response services in Texas and throughout the Gulf Coast region.

If you need disaster recovery or water restoration services, don’t hesitate to contact us today.