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By Pat Muller, Ready 2 Respond Trainer

If facility managers’ roles seem to have changed dramatically over the past several years, that’s because they have – now encompassing far more than routine maintenance and repairs. Today’s facilities managers are strategic leaders – overseeing smart building systems that automate lighting and HVAC units, implementing sustainability initiatives to lower utility costs, and managing cybersecurity risks to building networks.

Facilities teams must also lead emergency planning and response efforts for severe weather, power outages, and flooding incidents. With stronger storms and aging infrastructure, in addition to everyday leaks and mechanical malfunctions, water damage remains a persistent threat – and a vital consideration to include in facilities planning. 

An Evolving Role

As the role of facilities teams has expanded, so has the need for a proactive approach to emergency response – to think beyond day-to-day maintenance and take on broader responsibilities that impact building resiliency and long-term planning.

  • From reactive to strategic: Instead of responding to emergencies as they happen, facilities teams are expected to anticipate risks, implement preventative measures, and ensure continuity of operations.
  • Focus on efficiency, sustainability, and safety: Modern facilities management includes reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and enhancing workplace safety.
  • Adapting to changing regulations: Compliance with changing building codes, environmental regulations, and liability concerns all require ongoing oversight.
  • Integrating smart technologies: The rise of smart building systems and digital controls has dramatically increased efficiency and created new challenges, such as cybersecurity threats, that must be managed.

Water Damage Preparedness: A Critical Priority

Among the many risks facilities teams must plan for, water damage remains one of the most disruptive and costly. Whether caused by severe weather, burst pipes, or slow leaks, uncontrolled moisture can lead to structural damage, expensive repairs, mold growth, and operational disruption. Without a clear response strategy, what begins as a minor water issue can quickly escalate into a significant setback.

A well-structured disaster recovery plan is essential to maintaining business continuity and minimizing downtime. This includes:

  • Proactive risk assessments – regular inspections of roofs, plumbing, and mechanical systems to identify vulnerabilities
  • Filling in readiness gaps – ensuring teams have the necessary equipment and protocols in place to respond quickly and effectively
  • Moisture monitoring and advanced technologies – sensors and real-time data tracking to detect leaks early
  • Comprehensive team training – educating in-house facilities staff on proper response procedures, including rapid water extraction and drying techniques that minimize long-term impacts 

Facilities teams can significantly reduce risk by conducting a thorough assessment of emergency readiness and identifying gaps in preparedness.

As the industry continues to evolve, integrating water damage mitigation planning into a broader facilities strategy is no longer optional – it is essential to protecting assets, ensuring safety, and maintaining operational continuity.

Contact the R2R team for help evaluating water damage preparedness and implementing customized team training. For tips on drying after water damage, follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to our Facility Insights newsletter.