Natural disasters can be terrifying and destructive. But the worst part is that they’re unpredictable. Property managers have a responsibility not only to their own property but also to other properties that might be affected by an event. It includes helping tenants relocate while taking precautions to protect the residential complex or commercial establishment they are responsible for.
Here are some ways property managers should react during a natural disaster:
1) Evacuate Everyone
The best thing to do is immediately evacuate people to a safe area. It will involve identifying an evacuation route and taking with them as much property as possible, such as furniture that can be easily moved. After this, it will be essential to assess the damage.
2) Notify the Insurance Company
Property managers should notify their insurance company of any damage, large or small. They will have to do this as soon as possible to start the claim process while they continue assessing the damage. In an emergency response situation, insurance companies will want to know the city’s plan during a storm or disaster. In most cases, this includes the location of shelters, medical assistance, schools, and transportation.
3) Repairs
In the case of a building that has suffered severe damage, it might be necessary to do what is referred to as “rapid repairs,” which involve checking the structure’s stability and ensuring that equipment such as elevators is operational. With commercial buildings and residential complexes, it will be up to the property manager or owners to determine whether a facility can be used or needs repairs.
They should also get in touch with a restoration company so that they can take the necessary actions to protect and restore the property as quickly as possible.
4) Offer Shelter
The property manager will decide which type of shelter can be offered. Options include relocating people to nearby shelters, staying in hotels, or hosting.
5) Search for Lost Objects
If belongings have been lost during a disaster, it will be essential to search for them. It could include help from the public if volunteers are in the area. Property managers should first use forms of identification such as eyeglasses or lost property notices available from local institutions such as libraries and police stations.
6) Track the Project
The last step is tracking the project to ensure it’s on schedule and within budget and meets all your expectations. It will involve keeping records for the insurance company, but it will also be essential for yourself in case of a lawsuit or other type of liability claim that may come up.
Once people are deemed safe to return, property managers should help tenants return to their apartments. It may include repairs and possibly disposing of furniture or fixtures damaged during the calamity.
Base-line
Property managers should follow these steps at all times. However, they should also consider their property type and whether it is in high-risk flood areas. But in case of an emergency or disaster situation, these are steps that property managers can take to help minimize damage and loss of life in the event of such a catastrophe.
