How does the restoration process work?

At MJ White, we're here to guide you through the home restoration process and provide clarity on what to expect as we begin repairing your property. Once you, the property owner, sign a work authorization, our restoration company collaborates with your insurance adjuster to establish the scope of necessary repairs. Upon approval from the insurance adjuster, we initiate the estimation process. This involves gathering detailed measurements and photographs to ensure accuracy.nnOur estimators then input this information into a standardized program used by the insurance industry to generate the estimate, which is subsequently shared with the insurance company. Once the estimate is approved, our project managers step in to coordinate the repairs. They'll work closely with you, overseeing selection meetings, scheduling repairs, managing on-site construction, and arranging building inspections. Throughout the process, your project manager will review all repairs and schedule any necessary finishing touches before conducting the final walk-through with you.

Do I have to pay money upfront?

Yes! MJ White is proud to be a full-service contractor that can handle your entire restoration and renovation project from start to finish. We have a full, in-house water mitigation department and a contents division on site to make sure your experience is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

What training certificates do you hold?

MJ White is certified by The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). To qualify for IICRC-Certified Firm status, businesses must demonstrate proof of insurance, maintain a written customer complaint policy with documented follow-up, and provide ongoing education and training leading to certification for all technicians.nnIICRC Certified Firms are also required to abide by the IICRC Code of Ethics. Services provided by IICRC-certified professionals range from flooring inspection and cleaning to mold remediation to water and fire damage restoration.

Is your restoration company Michigan-based?

Everything that can be done to keep business local to Michigan is of huge value to our economy and employment rates. MJ White is proud to be a Michigan-based business that supports our local communities.

Prepare for Heavy Rains: 5 Tips for Waterproofing Commercial Properties

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March 15, 2025

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Featured, Water

Heavy rains can cause devastating damage to commercial properties, from flooding and water damage to equipment failures and structural issues. Business owners must be proactive when it comes to protecting their properties, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall. Preparing for the worst means taking the necessary steps to mitigate potential damage before the storm hits, not just dealing with the aftermath. By setting up preventive measures now, your business can reduce risks, minimize downtime, and protect assets during heavy rainstorms.

Floods and water damage are not only costly to repair but can also disrupt business operations, harm your reputation, and leave you scrambling to restore normalcy. Floods cost the U.S. nearly half a trillion dollars annually, largely due to business closures—whether temporary or permanent—that result in lost revenue.

In this guide, we'll walk you through practical steps to protect your commercial property, including checking your drainage systems, sealing leaks, setting up backup power sources, and creating an emergency response plan. By the time you finish reading, you'll have a clear action plan to keep your business safe during the next storm.

Tip #1: Inspect & Maintain Drainage Systems

The first line of defense against flood damage is making sure that your property's drainage system is in good condition. Flood risk assessments are crucial in identifying potential problem areas around your property.

Clogged or outdated drainage systems can cause water to pool around the building's foundation, leading to costly damage. Regularly inspect gutters, downspouts, and storm drains to ensure they are clear of debris, leaves, and any obstructions that could prevent proper water flow. Cleaning gutters and drains at least twice a year will help keep water flowing freely, preventing backups during heavy rains.

Additionally, check the grading around your building's foundation. The ground should slope away from the building to direct water away from the structure. If there are areas where water tends to pool, consider landscaping adjustments or installing additional drainage solutions to direct water away.

A well-maintained drainage system is key to keeping excess water from entering your building and preventing flooding from occurring during heavy rainstorms. Flood mitigation strategies like these will help protect your property from unnecessary water damage.

Tip #2: Seal Any Leaks or Cracks in Your Building

Water can seep into your building through small cracks or gaps in the foundation, windows, or roof. Over time, these small leaks can add up, causing significant damage to walls, flooring, and equipment. Before the heavy rains hit, inspect your building's exterior for any cracks, gaps, or damaged seals around doors and windows. Use high-quality sealants to patch up cracks and replace old weather stripping around doors and windows to keep rainwater out.

Inspect your roof regularly, especially after severe weather, as wind and rain can loosen shingles or tiles, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks. If you find any issues, hire a professional to repair or replace damaged areas before they cause further damage. Waterproofing commercial properties through this proactive approach can reduce the risk of significant water damage to your building and inventory.

Tip #3: Install Flood Barriers or Flood Gates

Flood barriers and floodgates are excellent ways to protect your building from water infiltration during a storm. These physical barriers are installed at entry points such as doors, windows, or loading docks. When heavy rains are predicted, these barriers can be quickly deployed to prevent water from entering the building. Installing permanent floodgates or removable barriers can be a game-changer in safeguarding your business from flooding during heavy rains.

Flood barriers work by creating a barrier between the water and your building, stopping it from entering and causing damage. Be sure to choose flood barriers that are designed for commercial use and are durable enough to withstand intense rainfall. Regularly check and maintain these barriers to ensure they are easy to deploy and in good condition when a storm is on the horizon. Disaster recovery planning involves these kinds of investments to ensure your property remains protected.

Tip #4: Set Up Backup Power Sources

Heavy rains often bring power outages, and businesses relying on electrical systems for daily operations must prepare for the possibility of a power failure. Having backup power sources such as a generator can ensure that your business stays operational, even when the electricity goes out. Install a reliable backup power system that is capable of supporting essential systems, such as lighting, computers, refrigeration, and security systems.

Make sure your backup power source is tested regularly and maintained to ensure it will work when needed. It's also important to plan for fuel storage and supply for extended power outages. Businesses can't afford to let storms knock them out of commission, so being prepared with backup power is a vital part of emergency flood response.

Tip #5: Create & Test Your Emergency Response Plan

An effective emergency response plan ensures your business can react swiftly and appropriately during a storm. Your plan should include key procedures for safeguarding your employees, securing equipment, and responding to water damage. Assign specific roles and responsibilities to your staff, including who will be in charge of monitoring weather updates, deploying flood barriers, and ensuring evacuation protocols are followed if necessary.

Additionally, your emergency response plan must include contact information for emergency services, water damage restoration specialists, and your backup power providers. Testing your plan through regular drills will help everyone involved understand their roles and responsibilities, allowing you to respond quickly and efficiently in the event of a flood or water emergency.

Trust MJ White to Help Your Business Prepare for Floods

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, one in four small businesses are just one disaster away from closing. Don't add to that statistic.

MJ White has decades of experience helping businesses develop comprehensive flood preparedness plansamage.html that address the unique challenges of maintaining operations during and after a flood. From setting up critical contact networks to offering restoration services, we guide your business every step of the way.

We understand the urgency of having a plan that ensures your business can recover quickly after a flood. Let MJ White's expertise make your business more resilient, with the right systems in place to handle heavy rains, flooding, and all the challenges that come with it.

Stay Ahead of Emergencies in Michigan with MJ White

For expert disaster preparedness and restoration services in Michigan, rely on MJ White. Call us at 888-992-4404 or reach out online today to create a custom emergency plan tailored to your business and ensure you're ready to face any challenge.