Winter Prep Tips for Commercial Properties

As winter approaches, commercial property owners and managers face unique challenges. The colder months can bring potential hazards that might disrupt daily operations and endanger occupants. Proactive planning is essential, not just to prevent expensive repairs but to ensure the safety and uninterrupted functioning of your building.

Interior Prep

• Test backup power systems, such as generators or battery packs. It's crucial to ensure that fuel or charge levels are adequate and that systems function effectively under load conditions.
• Wrap any exposed pipes in unheated areas to protect them from freezing, which could lead to flooding. Consider this a low-cost measure against potentially significant water damage.
• Update internal emergency plans. Post contact information in visible locations and clearly communicate procedures to both staff and tenants for quick response in emergency scenarios.
• Employ caulking or weatherstripping around windows and doors to prevent heat loss. This simple action can significantly reduce energy costs by maintaining the internal temperature.
• Have your HVAC system professionally serviced to include filter replacement, leak checks, and thermostat testing. Such maintenance boosts reliability and efficiency, especially during high-use winter months.
• Check both carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to test their functionality. Replace any expired batteries and ensure the units have not expired to keep building occupants safe.

Exterior Prep

• Walk the property after dark to test exterior lighting. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and consider upgrades to fixtures, enhancing safety and visibility for all who utilize the facility.
• Inspect parking areas and walkways for pre-existing damage. Address any issues now, and ensure salt or sand is available to prevent slips and falls once ice forms.
• Examine your roof for wear signs, like sagging or broken shingles. Take corrective action ahead of heavy snowfall to avoid any further structural damage.
• Ensure your snow removal protocols are ready. Whether through a contract with a provider or in-house management, verify responsibilities and guarantee timely responses to snow and ice accumulation.
• Clear out gutters and downspouts to prevent icy blockages that can cause ice dams. Regular maintenance here can lessen the risk of water intrusion and property damage.

By tackling these winter prep tasks early, you invest in operational continuity, occupant safety, and your building's structural integrity. Addressing small issues now can prevent larger, costlier emergencies as winter intensifies. Schedule inspections and review your service contracts today to stay ahead of the winter weather.