You never want to close your business if you don’t have to for any reason. The lost revenue, wages and expensive repair bill can be detrimental to everyone involved.

One of the best ways to stop a problem before it becomes a large issue is to regularly check these locations throughout your building. Oftentimes, water issues will give off signs of a problem, giving you the time you need to respond quickly:

1. The roof. Your roof is an invaluable part of your business! It offers your business and employees protection from the elements every day. It is important to get on your roof and look for damage on occasion, and especially after a heavy rainstorm, snowstorm or any sort of severe weather. Cracked shingles or a fallen tree can lead to water getting into your attic or top level, which can leak down your walls.

2. Bathrooms. Our sinks and toilets use water constantly, so it should be no surprise that water troubles commonly start in the bathroom. Even the tiniest of leaks can lead to unnecessary water loss and widespread damage. Check the pipes around your fixtures and make sure your caulk lines aren’t old or deteriorating.

3. Water heaters/HVAC/boilers. We rely on our large appliances like our boilers and HVAC systems to get us through every day. That is why it is so important to prioritize caring for these systems! A clogged drain, loose pipe connection or a faulty appliance can all lead to a water disaster. Your maintenance team should be performing regular maintenance and cleaning in your utility room often, and any mysterious puddles or drop in water pressure should be investigated right away.