How Property Managers Should Prepare for a Storm

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Be prepared and keep your building and your employees safe

As a property manager, you know that thorough storm preparedness is a key part of your job. If you find out that a hurricane or tornado is approaching your commercial building in Dickson, TX, you must take steps to prevent major flood damage. There are things you can do before, during and after the storm to make sure your building is ready.

Before the Storm

Before storm season even arrives, draw up a playbook that describes everything you will need during an emergency. Your playbook should include these items:

• Addresses and phone numbers of your staff members
  
• Emergency contacts for your employees
  
• Roles each employee will play during a storm
  
• List of essential personnel
  
  

Be sure to review the storm preparedness playbook with your staff well in advance. This way, they will know what to do before the storm hits. You should also work with the owner of the premises to ensure all the businesses in your building are informed about any upcoming storm.
Finally, review your insurance policy ahead of time. Make sure that your insurer covers the cost of flood cleanup.

During the Storm

As an impending storm gets closer, you should go over the plan again with your staff. Tell your nonessential employees that they can work from home. Essential workers, including front desk clerks and engineers, should stay on site until it is no longer safe for them to do so. Before the employees leave the premises, make sure that they know who to contact for updates.

After the Storm

Once the tornado or hurricane has passed, you and your maintenance supervisors should inspect the premises for storm damage. Be sure to take photos and videos to show to the building owner. You can then call storm cleanup specialists for assistance with the restoration.
Property management can be difficult during hurricane and tornado season. With a proper storm preparedness plan, you can help keep your building and your employees safe.