Is insurance usually required for these types of services?

Depending on the unique circumstances surrounding both type and severity levels associated thereof service needs, insurance might not always be essential.

How can I tell if a weather related claim is covered under my insurance policy?

It depends on the specifics of your policy and what type of coverage you have. Generally, most policies cover damage that results from very specific types of events like hail or windstorms. If in doubt it’s best to contact your insurer directly for more information about potential coverage.

How often should I check my policy details?

You should review your insurance documentation each time a change is made or at least annually in order to ensure that it meets all applicable state laws and regulations. Additionally, if there are changes within your company’s operations or area of operation (such as acquiring new property) then those matters need immediate attention so that any necessary adjustments can be made quickly an efficiently without delay.

Commercial Specialty Restoration Services

Need Commercial Tarping or Board-Up in Des Moines, IA?

Des Moines businesses face property damage from more directions than most expect. Derecho-strength winds have torn through the metro before, ripping roofing from offices, warehouses, and retail centers and sending debris through storefront glass across entire districts. Spring and summer thunderstorms bring hail and straight-line winds, while winter ice storms bring down heavy limbs and power lines. Downtown, where insurance and financial firms fill office towers and the skywalk connects busy blocks, a broken window or damaged entrance can disrupt hundreds of employees and visitors. In the East Village, the Court Avenue district, along Ingersoll Avenue, and in the Western Gateway, street-level shops, restaurants, and bars are exposed to graffiti, broken glass, and forced entry, especially overnight and on weekends. Warehouses and distribution centers along the I-235 and I-80 corridors face wind-damaged roofs and loading doors. Accidental impacts from vehicles and equipment add to the risk. ServiceMaster by Rice provides commercial tarping and board-up, office building glass cleanup and repair, and graffiti removal services to secure damaged properties and restore their appearance. We’re proud to support commercial property owners and managers throughout Des Moines and Central Iowa.

Storm or Vandalism Damage at Your Des Moines Business? Get Emergency Property Protection 24/7. Call Now.

Call 866.867.3123

Commercial Roof Tarping

Severe storms can hit Des Moines with little warning, and the city knows how widespread the damage can be. When derecho-strength winds or powerful thunderstorms sweep across the metro, they can peel membrane from flat roofs, tear loose flashing, and damage rooftop units on offices, retail centers, and warehouses all at once. Large hail can puncture roofing and crack skylights. Once a roof is open, rain pours into ceiling spaces, insulation, and the offices, inventory, and equipment below. With so many buildings damaged at the same time, the next storm can arrive before repairs begin. Our crews install heavy-duty tarps quickly to stop further water intrusion.

Vandalism and Graffiti Cleanup

Storefront vandalism creates immediate problems for security and customer perception. In busy districts like the East Village, Court Avenue, and the blocks around downtown, graffiti can appear overnight on brick walls, doors, and windows. Broken glass and forced entry leave businesses exposed to theft and the elements. Spray paint soaks into porous brick and stone, and on the historic buildings common in older districts, harsh cleaning can damage original materials. The longer graffiti stays up, the harder it becomes to remove and the more it can invite repeat vandalism. For restaurants and shops that depend on foot traffic, a defaced storefront can quickly turn customers away.

Commercial Board-Up and Glass Replacement

A broken storefront window or damaged entry door needs attention right away, whatever the cause. Wind-blown debris from a summer storm, a vehicle that jumps the curb, a forced entry overnight, or an accidental impact from equipment can all leave an opening that exposes merchandise, equipment, and records. In Iowa’s weather, that opening also lets in rain, snow, and freezing air. Downtown office towers and street-level businesses alike can face damaged lobbies, shattered glass, and blocked entrances that disrupt employees and customers. Until the opening is secured, the property remains vulnerable to further loss and theft.

Why Choose ServiceMaster by Rice for Commercial Tarping, Board-Up, and Glass and Graffiti Repair?

Rapid Roof Protection

Heavy-duty tarps are secured against wind uplift to prevent further water intrusion. Prompt protection matters because one rainfall through damaged commercial roofing could destroy valuable inventory and interior finishes.

Secure Storefront Board-Up

Durable boarding materials protect broken windows and entryways against weather and unauthorized access. Properly secured openings safeguard merchandise and equipment because exposed storefronts present immediate security concerns.

Professional Glass Replacement

Replacement glazing restores storefront security and a welcoming business appearance. Our technicians coordinate materials suited to existing windows because temporary boarding should never become a permanent visual barrier for customers.

Thorough Graffiti Removal

Surface-specific cleaning methods remove unwanted markings while preserving exterior finishes. Careful graffiti removal protects brickwork and painted surfaces because aggressive cleaning techniques could cause costly damage to commercial building materials.

Why Storefront Damage Can't Wait to Be Secured in Des Moines

An unsecured storefront or exposed building opening creates mounting concerns for business owners, particularly when storm damage or vandalism disrupts normal operations.

Within Hours: Security Risks Increase. Broken windows and unsecured entrances expose valuable merchandise to theft and unauthorized entry. Wind-driven rain could also enter damaged openings, threatening inventory and interior materials while temporary protection remains unfinished.

Within 24–48 Hours: Property Damage Spreads. Continued weather intrusion allows moisture to penetrate flooring and wall materials, increasing restoration costs. Visible vandalism or unrepaired damage also creates security concerns for employees and returning customers.

After Several Days: Business Disruptions Grow. Prolonged storefront damage impacts customer confidence and discourages foot traffic. Exposed building materials deteriorate under changing weather conditions, potentially extending repair timelines and delaying the return to normal operations.

What to Do Immediately After Storm, Vandalism, or Graffiti Damage to Your Des Moines Property

1

Step 1

Check for Immediate Safety Hazards

Inspect the area from a safe distance for broken glass, unstable structures, or downed power lines. Keep employees and customers clear until dangerous conditions are assessed by qualified personnel.
2

Step 2

File a Police or City Graffiti Report

Report vandalism or forced entry to local law enforcement. For graffiti incidents, contact the City of Des Moines graffiti hotline and preserve relevant information prior to beginning cleanup.
3

Step 3

Document Everything for Insurance

Photograph and record video of damaged roofing, broken windows, and graffiti from safe locations. Capture surrounding conditions and visible property losses prior to temporary boarding or restoration work.
4

Step 4

Call ServiceMaster by Rice

Contact our 24/7 Des Moines response team for emergency property protection. Prompt commercial tarping and board-up, glass repairs, and cleanup support safer conditions and a more timely business reopening.