Preparing Your Commercial Property for Winter

The winter season is fast approaching, bringing with it unique challenges for commercial property owners and managers. Taking proactive steps now can help you avoid costly repairs down the line and ensure the smooth operation and safety of your building and its occupants. While winter may seem daunting, simple actions can make a significant impact. Here's what you need to know to get started.

Interior Prep Tips

• Have your HVAC system professionally serviced. This should include filter replacements, leak checks, and thermostat testing to ensure reliability and efficiency throughout the colder months.
• Seal any gaps around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent heat leakage and maintain a comfortable interior environment.
• Wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas to protect them from freezing – an important step to prevent flooding and costly water damage.
• Update internal emergency plans, and make sure contact information is visibly posted. Procedures should be clear to all staff and tenants for increased safety and preparedness.
• Test backup power systems, such as generators or battery packs, to ensure they function under load and have sufficient fuel or charge levels in an emergency.
• Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to ensure they are operational. Replace batteries and confirm they haven't expired to maintain a safe environment.

Exterior Prep Tips

• Examine the property's roof for signs of wear, including any sagging, broken shingles, or blocked drainage areas. Address these issues now to prevent significant damage during heavy snowfall.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts to avoid debris blockages and ice dam formations that can lead to leaks and water damage.
• Confirm that snow removal contracts are in place or restock supplies if managing snow removal in-house. Clear plans for who is responsible for what will ensure a timely response to future snowfalls.
• Inspect parking areas and walkways for existing damage, which could worsen under icy conditions, and fix any issues now. Be prepared by having salt or sand on hand.
• Walk the property after dark to test the lighting. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and consider upgrading lighting fixtures for enhanced safety and visibility for everyone.

By tackling winter preparedness tasks early, you are investing in operational continuity, occupant safety, and building integrity. Remember, taking care of small issues now can prevent larger, costlier problems during the harshest months. Schedule inspections or review your service contracts today to stay a step ahead of the winter weather.