In a commercial building, a “small leak” doesn’t exist. Between the high water pressure required for multi-story structures and the sheer volume of water used, a failure can flood an entire floor in minutes. An emergency response plan isn’t a luxury—it’s a requirement for protecting your asset and your tenants’ businesses.
At Bob Means Plumbing, we’ve seen the difference between a building that was prepared and one that wasn’t. The difference is usually measured in tens of thousands of dollars in restoration costs.
The Foundation: Knowing Your Shut-Offs
It sounds simple, but you would be surprised how often on-site staff can’t find the main water shut-off in a crisis.
- Labeling: Every main valve and zone valve should be clearly labeled with high-visibility tags.
- Accessibility: Ensure valves aren’t blocked by tenant storage or locked behind doors for which only one person has the key.
- The “Map”: Your facility should have a “Plumbing Emergency Map” in the maintenance office that shows the location of every shut-off, ejector pump, and backflow device.
Is your building ready? Call Bob Means Plumbing at (717) 412-7434 or visit our website to discuss an emergency service partnership.
