Damage Assessment

(author:  Dr. Schuler, 2005 / Jan / 01)

deutscher Text

First Estimates

Regional and national authorities are eager to get quickly first estimates of damage. To provide these figures in time is difficult enough for big museums and cities, but nearly impossible for small museums and for towns and villages  - especially because in those communities not only museums, but most public buildings, streets and bridges are severely affected. And the few countryside experts couldn't master this immense task of assessing damages.

But the authorities and the foundations have a very good reason to ask for quick estimates. The grants of an instant support scheme can only be correctly distributed, if a quick assessment of damage is available.

Criteria for Precise Assessment

How much does cost a flood catastrophe?

There are many costs one doesn't think of - at least not in the first critical days. So we tried to compile a catalogue of all the different issues you have to pay for.

A) During catastrophe

1) rescue actions
2) transports
3) additional emergency depots (preparation, rent, security)
4) minimizing damage (water pumping) 
5) additional operating costs (generator, security)

B) After catastrophe

1) clearing away: mud, rubble, furniture
2) disinfection
3) cleaning
4) transport costs 
5) disposal fee (rubble, contaminated mud and furniture)

C) Reduced takings

1) total closing period
2) few local visitors (for economic and mental reasons)
3) foreign visitors stay away

D) Preparation of reopening

1) temporary constructions (entrance, staircase)
2) additional operation costs
3) cost and losses due to cancelling or postponing of prepared exhibitions and events
4) spontaneous special exhibitions

E) Repairing the building

1) grounds (entrance, parking space, yards)
2) building construction
3) basic installations (heating, wiring and plumbing)
4) communication installations
5) furniture and equipment

F) Renovating the museum 

1) outdoor (exhibits, historic reconstructions, action zones)
2) special installations (air conditioning, security)
3) visitor service
4) permanent exposition 
5) temporary exhibition
6) depots
7) particular rooms (library, workshops, educational activities)
8) replenish stocks (shop, storage rooms)

G) Care for museum objects

1) damages directly caused by water
2) damages caused by rescue actions
3) damages caused by unfavourable conditions in emergency depots

H) Loss of museum objects

1) complete loss due to the floods
2) loss due to emergency conditions (breakage, theft)
3) drop in value due to heavy damages

I) Prevention

1) expert opinions (causes, prevention)
2) planning costs
3) improvement of flood protection
4) improvement of rescue and evacuation facilities
5) changes in basement and ground floor (no museum depots, no costly equipped workshops, no central plants)
6) new museums depots in safe places

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