Prevent damage to your business in the event of a flood
We have seen flooding occur across the country over the weekend and it has
caused significant damage to many businesses. We would like to remind you
of some useful tips to help prevent damage in the event of a flood. Our
customers can contact our team right here if you have any queries.
Rain and flooding
By taking action to prepare in advance for flooding, most businesses can save 20-90% on the cost of lost stock and moveable equipment, as well as a lot of trouble and stress. It is vital that organisations:
- Find out if they are at risk of flooding
- Find out about flood warnings
- Plan to protect property and minimise financial risks
- Ensure the safety of all staff
Responding to a flood warning can make a substantial difference to flood-related damages. There can be savings of up to 80% on stock in offices and in hi-tech offices savings of up to 90% can be made on damage to moveable equipment. Taking action in response to flooding also can help to minimise business interruption and the cost of getting back in business – factors which often outweigh the direct physical costs of flooding. You can help reduce the cost of flooding to your business by taking a few simple, low cost or no cost steps to minimise the effects of floodwaters. More expensive actions can be taken to make bigger savings.
No cost tips
Find out if flood warnings are available in your area, and, if so, put in place measures
to ensure you will be sent or have access to the warnings. Check out Met Eireann or
your local map alerter
- Write a flood plan and keep a copy(ies) in a safe place and off site
- Train staff to be prepared for flooding
- Be ready to move important equipment, such as computers, above flood level upon receipt of a flood warning
- Keep a store of strong plastic bags to place around the legs of furniture when you receive a flood warning.
- Identify a suitable location for evacuation of vehicles to higher ground
- Consider the height at which goods are fixed, stored or displayed – the higher the goods the less chance of damage
- Copy vital hard copy and electronic records and store them in a safe place. This includes financial and insurance records, designs and specifications, staff, customer and supplier databases and staff files
Low cost tips
- Install back flow valves on all toilets and drains
- Raise electrical sockets above flood level
- Raise electrical machinery on a platform above flood level
- Buy sturdy plastic sheeting for use in case of a flood warning. Place large furniture on top of the sheeting and raise the sheeting around it
- Move computer servers permanently away from the basement or ground floor
- Secure equipment that could move or fall during a flood
- Store stock on pallets or shelving Higher cost tips
- Move air-conditioning and heating systems permanently away from the basement or ground floor
- Purchase machinery with motors, gear boxes and programmable electric controls that are above flood level (ie. at the top)
- Purchase an emergency power generator
- Purchase permanent or semi-permanent flood protection products
Making a claim
At Sheridan Insurances we understand that no one ever wants to have an insurance claim. That’s why we go out of our way to make the claims experience as stress-free as possible for our customers. We will respond to your needs with speed, compassion, integrity and professionalism. If our customers have any questions you can contact us at your convience.