Water damage is a common problem that can cause significant damage to commercial properties. 

Unfortunately, water damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including heavy rain, flooding, burst pipes, leaky roofs, faulty plumbing or appliances, not all of which are easy to catch. 

But if left undiscovered and/or untreated, it can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and other serious problems. 

So, how do you spot water damage early, before it wreaks havoc?

Let’s take a look at the early warning signs and how you can prevent water damage in the first place. 

What is Water Damage?

Water damage is the process of water infiltrating your commercial property and causing damage, regardless of its original origin (i.e. weather or faulty appliance). 

Water damage can be difficult to detect, as it often occurs in hidden areas of your property, such as behind walls and under floors.

How to Spot Signs of Water Damage

There are several signs that you can look for to detect water damage to your property. These include:

1. Water Stains: Water stains are one of the most common signs of water damage. They can appear on walls, ceilings, and floors, and are often yellow or brown in color.
   
2. Mold: Mold is a common side effect of water damage. It can grow in damp areas of your property, such as bathrooms and basements, or even in carpets, and can cause serious health problems if left untreated.
   
3. Musty Odors: Musty odors are another sign. They can be an indicator of mold growth, or of water that has seeped in and been left standing for a long period of time.
4. Peeling Paint or Wallpaper: Peeling paint or wallpaper can be a sign of water damage. This is because water can cause the adhesive to loosen, causing the paint or wallpaper to peel away from the wall.
   
5. Warped or Buckled Floors: For floors like vinyl or wood, water can be detrimental. If you are noticing warping or buckling in your floors, it could be a sign that water has gotten to them.
   
6. Dampness or Humidity: Dampness or humidity in your building can also be a sign of water damage. This can be caused by water that has seeped into your property or even by high levels of humidity, which, on its own, can be problematic. 

Unfortunately, the nature of our buildings and furnishings means that even excessive dampness can lead to potentially costly or dangerous damage. Yet, we may often not be aware of the problem until the damage is done. 

Preventing Water Damage

Now, as the old adage says, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Preventing water damage is much easier than dealing with it after the fact. 

So, to that end, here are some tips to help you prevent water damage to your commercial property:

1. Inspect Your Property Regularly: Regular inspections can help you detect water damage early, before it becomes a major problem.
   
2. Fix Leaks Promptly: If you notice a leak, or an employee or tenant mentions one, check and fix it promptly.
   
3. Clean Your Gutters: Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and seep into your property. Clean your gutters regularly to prevent this from happening.
   
4. Install a Sump Pump: A sump pump can help prevent water damage by pumping water out of your property during heavy rain.
   
5. Maintain Your Roof: A leaky roof can cause extensive damage to your roof and building. Even a small leak left alone can quickly grow and result in major consequences. Never ignore a leak, and m1aintain your roof regularly to prevent them in the first place.

Water damage is a serious problem that can cause significant damage to your commercial property, even when its source seems insignificant or small, like a pooling behind the faucet in the bathrooms.

By knowing how to spot water damage early, you can prevent it from spreading and wreaking havoc. But better yet is taking steps to prevent it so you can protect your property and your business. 

Inspect your property regularly, fix leaks promptly, clean your gutters, install a sump pump, listen when employees or tenants complain of an odor or dampness, and maintain your roof to prevent water damage. 

Stay safe and dry and protect your investment!