Recovering from a hurricane can be a daunting and overwhelming task for any business. A natural disaster can occur at a moment's notice. After a storm has passed, the damage left behind can range from minor to catastrophic depending on the severity of the hurricane. Businesses in the affected area have to not only focus on recovery but also on continuing to operate and serve their customers. Unfortunately, businesses that haven’t implemented a disaster restoration plan before the unthinkable happens may likely be unable to reopen their doors after a loss. Fortunately, the experts at ServiceMaster Recovery Management are here to help.
The first step in hurricane recovery for a business is to assess the damage. It’s important to take stock of the physical damages to the property, including buildings, equipment, and inventory. Additionally, any lost documents or data should be accounted for and replaced. This assessment will give a clearer picture of the recovery process and the resources needed to get the business back on its feet.
Once the damage has been assessed, the business should create a plan of action for recovery. This plan should include the steps needed to get the business up and running, including securing additional funding, obtaining necessary supplies, and restoring operations. It should also include a timeline for each step of the recovery process and a budget for the anticipated costs. Use these tips to get your business back on its feet as soon as you can after disaster strikes.
Create A Natural Disaster Plan. If your business is going to survive a natural disaster, you’ll need a preparedness plan in place. Write down a list of immediate solutions you'll implement in the aftermath of a natural disaster. Such as:
Which disasters are likely to impact your business, depending on where it is located
Locations suitable for employee evacuation
How to stay in contact with all staff members
Emergency contact information for each employee
Plans to protect and/or access vital business records and information
If there will be an off-site location from which employees need to work until doors reopen
Contact information for the business’s insurance company, financial institutions, and a reputable disaster restoration company
If you need help creating your plan, print out FEMA’s business continuity and disaster preparedness plan, fill in your company’s information, and ensure key employees are aware of all details.
Keep Lines Of Communication Open. As soon as you can, keep your staff informed about what's happening with your business. Provide an estimate of when you'll be able to reopen for business. If excessive damage forces you to temporarily relocate, let others know how to find you. Keep in mind that your ability to recover from a natural disaster might largely depend on how quickly your employees are able to return to work. It’s also important to communicate regularly with customers and other stakeholders during the recovery process. This can include providing updates on the status of the recovery and any changes to the business’s operations. This will help customers and other stakeholders know what to expect and when to expect it, which can reduce the amount of confusion and frustration during this difficult time.
Insurance. Consider purchasing a flood insurance plan that specifically covers natural disasters. The Small Business Administration (SBA) may also be a good place to turn for help. Through the organization's office of disaster assistance, businesses that are located in declared disaster areas can apply for low-interest, long-term loans to make repairs and replacements.
A good business disaster plan helps protect lives, equipment, and property, minimize financial loss, and expedite recovery. You and your business deserve a proactive partner that will be there before disaster strikes to help you best prepare. Learn more about our Pre-disaster Program.
Recovering from a hurricane can be a difficult and overwhelming process, but with the right preparation and a well-crafted plan, a business can get back on its feet and continue to serve its customers and other stakeholders. If the unexpected does happen, remember that you’re not alone. You can count on the experts at ServiceMaster Recovery Management to guide and support you throughout the recovery process and help get your business back up and running again as quickly as possible. Call us today at (855) 642-2444">(855) 642-2444.