How Does a Landlord Handle a Sewage Backup in a Strip Mall?

First, shut off the water supply to the affected stores to stop the flow. Then, turn off electricity in the flooded areas if it is safe to do so, and post signs to keep tenants and customers out. Sewage contains harmful bacteria, so do not let anyone touch or clean it without proper gear.

Next, contact your insurance company to report the loss and ask about coverage for commercial property. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Take photos and videos of the damage before any cleanup begins, and keep receipts for any temporary repairs you make to secure the property.

• Shut off water valves for the strip mall
• Turn off power to affected units if safe
• Block off the area with warning signs
• Document the damage with photos and videos
• Notify all tenants about the closure
• Call local water damage pros for sewage cleanup

Porous materials like drywall, carpet, insulation, and wood often cannot be saved after sewage exposure. The pros will remove and dispose of these items to prevent contamination. Non-porous surfaces like tile, concrete, and metal can usually be cleaned and reused.

You may need to arrange for drywall repair, flooring replacement, or other reconstruction after the cleanup. The pros can help you understand what needs to be replaced, but the actual repairs may be done by other trades like carpenters or electricians. Keep records of all removed items for your insurance claim.

After the cleanup, you should inspect the strip mall's plumbing system to find the cause of the backup. Common causes include clogged pipes, tree roots, or a failing sewer line. You may need to hire a plumber to clear blockages or repair the line.

Consider installing backflow valves on each unit's sewer line to reduce the risk of future backups. Regular maintenance, like having the main sewer line inspected, can also help. If you live in Arlington, keep the location of the main shutoff valve written down for quick access in an emergency.