As the year ends, many businesses focus on year-end closeouts, peak retail seasons, and reduced staffing during holidays—all of which make storm preparedness and recovery more difficult. In Oklahoma City, a variety of severe weather events could inflict damage and temporarily close businesses. High winds, hailstorms, tornadoes, and flash flooding can halt operations. To avoid equipment damage, inventory loss, and temporary closures, learn how to prepare your business for extreme weather. Contact ServiceMaster by RSI – Oklahoma City for storm damage recovery services.
Prepare, Respond, and Rebuild: OKC Business Storm Recovery Made Simple
Proactive preparation is essential for businesses hoping to prevent water damage. Oklahoma’s unpredictable late-year storms affect all types of businesses. Retail, industrial, and office properties of all ages may struggle to endure storms, but working with a water damage restoration team can help repair your business quickly. Our emergency water extraction and structural drying services are available 24/7 to mitigate damage and help your headquarters remain in operation.
Common Types of Storm Damage
During the late fall and early winter months, Oklahoma City experiences inclement weather that damages signage, roofing, windows, and HVAC units. High wind speeds combined with rainfall may dislodge shingles, and flash flooding is likely to impact ground-level storage and basements. Though hailstorms are not often, they damage exterior finishes, parking lots, and electrical systems.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Storm Hits
If your business has been affected by a storm, prioritize safety by evacuating staff and customers when the building becomes unsafe. Turn off utilities if there’s a risk of electrical or gas hazards, and secure the property to prevent further damage or looting. Begin documenting damage with photos or video for insurance, and contact a commercial storm damage recovery Oklahoma City team.
Inspecting and Documenting Damage Efficiently
After a storm, inspecting your property can identify damage and structural deficiencies, such as:
- Roof integrity, leaks, or missing shingles
- Broken windows, doors, or siding
- Water intrusion signs like staining, warping, or musty smells
- Damage to office equipment, files, or merchandise
Who to Call First: Insurance, Contactors, and Restoration Experts
Because storm damage is typically a time-sensitive issue, time is of the essence once the damage is detected. Streamline your response process by contacting your insurance provider as soon as possible. Reach out to a professional restoration team before cleanup begins, but avoid untrustworthy or “storm-chasing” contractors. Very licenses and local references, and prioritize restoration companies with relevant experience.
How to Minimize Downtime During Restoration
Depending on the severity of your commercial damage, the restoration process could take months to complete. During his time, there are ways businesses can remain productive while contractors complete essential repairs. Relocate critical data to temporary workspaces to provide equipment for remote operations. If on-site operations are required, use a backup power source, and communicate clearly with customers about service changes or delays.
Preventative Measures for the Future
At times, severe weather can make property damage inevitable, but many instances of storm damage can be prevented with proper planning. Strengthen your property for the next storm by installing short shutters or impact-resistant glass around your business. Lastly, elevate key systems and storage off the ground level and train your staff on your company’s latest emergency plan.
How a Local Recovery Partner Can Make a Difference
ServiceMaster Restoration by RSI - Oklahoma City has helped countless businesses across the metro area—including those in Moore, Edmond, and NW OKC—bounce back from storm-related losses. With our rapid response, advanced equipment, and familiarity with local codes and insurance procedures, we ensure storm recovery is as seamless as possible. Our 24/7 availability makes us a vital partner for businesses dealing with unpredictable late-year weather events, and our custom restoration plans are tailored to each residence we restore.
Wrap Up the Year with Confidence, Not Damage Control
Don’t let a sudden storm derail your year-end operations. The right preparation and recovery plan will keep your business moving forward, even when the skies turn. For help before, during, or after a storm, OKC businesses can count on ServiceMaster by RSI – Oklahoma City when it matters most. Our experienced local support team specializes in storm damage recovery services, and we’re available 24/7 to address urgent damages. Contact us today at 405-267-7172 or click here to schedule a consultation.
