As winter approaches, commercial property owners and managers face a unique set of challenges. The cold months can bring about numerous operational hurdles, requiring proactive planning to avoid costly repairs and maintain smooth daily operations. These preparations are crucial not only for the safety of all building occupants but also to ensure business continuity.
Interior Prep
Beneath your roof lies a world of interconnected systems that need attention as the temperature drops:
- Testing backup power systems, such as generators or battery packs, is a must. Ensure that these are fully charged or fueled and can handle their intended load. A power outage during a snowstorm is the last thing you’d want to deal with.
- Take the time to wrap exposed pipes in unheated areas. This simple step can prevent the devastating consequences of flooding from burst pipes, making your winter much less stressful.
- Caulk or weatherstrip gaps around windows and doors to prevent precious heat from escaping. Losing warmth not only heightens energy bills but also decreases comfort for everyone inside.
- Have your HVAC serviced by professionals. This service should include filter replacements, checking for leaks, and thermostat testing. Ensuring your system’s efficiency will keep it running smoothly when you need it most.
- Double-check both carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Test their functionality, change out batteries, and confirm they’re current. These small devices can save lives, especially when winter heating is in full swing.
- Regularly update and clearly communicate internal emergency plans. Post contact information prominently and ensure everyone—staff and tenants alike—knows the procedure during an emergency.
Exterior Prep
Winter’s wrath first touches the outside of your properties, so keep these areas fortified:
- Inspect parking areas and walkways now for any visible damage. Fix these issues before ice forms and have salt or sand accessible to prevent slips and falls.
- Walk your property after dark. Check lighting fixtures for proper function, replace burnt-out bulbs, and consider upgrading to brighter, energy-efficient options for enhanced safety and visibility.
- Clean out gutters and downspouts so they can do their job when snow starts melting. Blockages can lead to ice dams and serious roof damage.
- On the roof, be vigilant for any signs of wear like sagging or broken shingles. Blocked drainage can quickly become a serious issue under heavy snow conditions.
- Review snow removal strategies. Whether it’s confirming external contracts or organizing an in-house response, clarity on who does what will ensure timely snow management.
Tackling these winter prep tasks early not only sets the stage for a smoother season but reinforces your investment in safe, efficient, and enduring operations. Don’t delay—schedule necessary inspections and review service contracts today. Addressing small issues now can prevent more significant, costly emergencies as the temperature drops.
