When disaster hits your commercial property, whether it’s a burst pipe, electrical fire, storm damage, or structural issue, every second counts. Each minute your business is down can mean lost income, mounting expenses, and a bigger mess to clean up. That’s why knowing what to do before chaos strikes is so important.
If you run a business in the Lehigh Valley, being prepared with a game plan (and having a solid contractor on speed dial) for emergency commercial building repairs is simply smart business.
This guide walks you through what to expect, what to do, and how a trusted Lehigh Valley general contractor like Jerdon Construction can help get things back on track fast.
Common Commercial Building Emergencies
Emergencies come in all shapes and sizes, but they have one thing in common: you need to act fast. Some of the more common types of commercial building trouble include:
- Water damage: Burst pipes, leaking roofs, or clogged drains can wreak havoc quickly, especially in older buildings.
- Fire and smoke damage: Whether it’s an electrical short or a kitchen incident, even a small fire can leave behind major damage from smoke and water.
- Storm damage: High winds, hail, and heavy rain can rip into roofs, walls, and siding, leaving openings for more issues to follow.
- Structural failures: Cracked foundations or shifting frames can quickly turn into dangerous situations if not addressed right away.
- HVAC or electrical issues: Power outages or HVAC breakdowns may seem like minor hiccups, but they can bring your organization to a halt.
Even a minor issue can spiral if left unchecked. The sooner you take action (and bring in commercial construction professionals who know what they’re doing,) the better your odds of a fast, smooth recovery.
Step One: Protect People First
Before you think about drywall or insurance claims, safety comes first. If there’s a fire, flooding, or clear structural danger, get everyone out and call emergency services. Make sure your team and anyone else inside is accounted for and safe.
Even if things look stable, unseen dangers (like water behind walls or exposed wires) can create real hazards. When in doubt, don’t go back inside.
It’s a good idea to call in a contractor that offers emergency assessments. They can help determine whether it’s safe to return and give you the next steps.
Step Two: Limit the Damage
Once everyone is safe, the next priority is preventing things from getting worse and Jerdon Construction is the only call you’ll need to make.
Depending on the issue, this might include:
- Turning off the main water supply or cutting the power
- Boarding up broken windows or damaged entrances
- Placing tarps over holes in the roof to keep the rain out
- Using fans or dehumidifiers to start drying things out
Step Three: Document the Damage
Before you break out the mop or shop vac, document everything. Your insurance provider will want proof, and the better your documentation, the easier it is to get reimbursed.
- Snap wide and close-up photos of all damaged areas
- Jot down when the issue started and how it was discovered
- Keep a log of affected inventory, equipment, or furniture
Hold on to every receipt from emergency supplies or quick fixes. If your contractor is used to handling insurance jobs, they can help provide backup documentation and even write up professional assessments for your claim.
Step Four: File Your Insurance Claim
Start the claims process as soon as possible. Waiting could delay your reimbursement or even cause issues with coverage.
Working with a Lehigh Valley contractor who knows how to handle emergency commercial building repair is a gamechanger. They can:
- Speak directly with your adjuster
- Provide detailed estimates
- Highlight issues you might miss
It’s important to make sure the full scope of damage is covered. Mold, moisture, or smoke residue might not be obvious right away, but they matter.
Step Five: Get Repairs Rolling
With the paperwork underway, it’s time to start the actual repair and restoration. The process might include:
- Removing wet drywall, flooring, or insulation
- Addressing structural issues or electrical damage
- Treating mold or lingering smoke odors
- Painting, replacing materials, and bringing your space back to life
A good Lehigh Valley general contractor (like Jerdon Construction) will manage timelines, permits, inspections, and subcontractors so you can focus on running your business.
They may also recommend upgrades while the walls are open, like installing better insulation, waterproofing, or energy-efficient lighting to avoid future problems.
Why Local Expertise Makes a Difference
You don’t want to spend precious time explaining your zip code to a national call center. When emergencies hit, you need someone who knows the Lehigh Valley inside and out.
A local contractor can:
- Move fast and mobilize teams quickly
- Navigate local regulations with ease
- Tap into regional suppliers and labor to avoid delays
Weather, terrain, and code requirements vary across regions. A contractor who lives and works in the same community understands what your building really needs to bounce back.
Choosing the Right Contractor for Emergency Repairs
Some contractors specialize in renovations or new builds, but emergency work is a different animal. You want a team that:
- Offers round-the-clock availability
- Has experience with insurance claims and documentation
- Knows local codes and how to pull permits fast
- Has a reputation for reliability under pressure
Ask about past emergency projects, how quickly they can respond, and what support they provide after the initial repair. A strong partner doesn’t disappear after the drywall goes up.
FAQ’s About Lehigh Valley Emergency Building Repair
What qualifies as a commercial building emergency?
Any event that causes sudden, significant damage to your building or disrupts your ability to operate (like fires, flooding, structural issues, or electrical failures) can be considered an emergency. Simply put, if it puts people at risk or compromises your business, it’s worth treating as urgent.
How soon should I contact a contractor after discovering damage?
Immediately. Even small issues can escalate fast. Reaching out to a qualified contractor early ensures the damage is assessed quickly, prevents further issues, and speeds up the insurance and repair process. Many contractors offer 24/7 emergency response services.
How Jerdon Construction Supports Local Businesses
Jerdon Construction has helped businesses across the Lehigh Valley get back on their feet after all kinds of disasters, including storm damage, water intrusions, electrical fires, and more.
Our team is fast, thorough, and knows how to deal with insurance companies. We coordinate every aspect of the rebuild and prioritize quality at every step.
We’ve worked with retail shops, restaurants, offices, and healthcare facilities, and we treat every job with urgency, care, and a commitment to long-term durability.
Peace of Mind Is Just a Phone Call Away
The best time to prepare for an emergency is before it happens. Don’t wait until you’re scrambling to find help.
Connect with our commercial construction experts at Jerdon Construction today. As a trusted Lehigh Valley general contractor, we’re here to help you plan ahead, act fast, and come out stronger on the other side. Our crews are trained to handle urgent situations with professionalism plus precision. From day one to final inspection, we’re by your side with smart solutions, local insight, and a steady hand.
