Prepare Your Commercial Property for Winter

With winter just around the corner, commercial property owners and managers face unique challenges. Proactive planning is essential not just to avoid costly repairs, but to ensure smooth operations and the safety of everyone in the building. Simple yet effective steps can make a significant impact on winter readiness.

Interior Prep

• Update and communicate your internal emergency plans to all staff and tenants. Ensure contact info is clearly posted in visible areas.
• Test backup power systems like generators; confirm fuel or charge levels are sufficient and that systems function under load.
• Check your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors by testing functionality, replacing batteries, and confirming they aren't expired.
• Wrap exposed pipes in unheated spaces to prevent freezing and potential flooding.
• Seal gaps around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent heat leakage.
• Have your HVAC system professionally serviced, including filter replacement and thermostat testing, to boost reliability and efficiency.

Exterior Prep

• Ensure snow removal contracts are in place or restock supplies if handling it in-house. Review responsibilities and response times.
• Examine the roof for signs of wear, such as sagging or broken shingles, and address issues before heavy snowfall.
• Inspect parking areas and walkways for damage that could worsen in icy conditions. Have salt or sand ready for use.
• Walk the property after dark to test lighting. Replace bulbs and consider upgrading fixtures for improved safety and visibility.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts to avoid blockages and ice dam formation.

Tackling these winter prep tasks early helps maintain operational continuity, guarantees occupant safety, and upholds building integrity. Addressing small issues now can prevent larger, costlier emergencies during the harsh winter months. Get ahead of the weather by scheduling inspections or reviewing service contracts today.