Essential Winter Prep Tips for Commercial Properties

As winter approaches, commercial property owners face unique challenges. Proactive planning is essential to avoid costly repairs and ensure smooth operations and safety for all building occupants. Simple steps can make a significant difference during the colder months.

Interior Prep Tips

• Have your HVAC system professionally serviced. Include filter replacement, leak checks, and thermostat testing to boost reliability and efficiency.
• Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal any gaps around windows and doors that could leak heat.
• Wrap exposed pipes in unheated spaces to prevent freezing and potential flooding.
• Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Test functionality, replace batteries, and confirm they haven’t expired.
• Test backup power systems like generators or battery packs. Ensure fuel or charge levels are sufficient and systems function under load.
• Update internal emergency plans and ensure contact info is posted in visible areas; communicate procedures clearly to all staff and tenants.

Exterior Prep Tips

• Examine the roof for signs of wear, such as sagging, broken shingles, or blocked drainage. Address issues before heavy snowfall.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts to avoid blockages and ice dam formation.
• Confirm snow removal contracts or restock supplies if managing in-house. Review who is responsible and ensure timely response plans.
• Inspect parking areas and walkways for damage that could worsen in icy conditions. Fix issues now and have salt or sand ready.
• Walk the property after dark to test lighting. Replace bulbs and consider upgrading fixtures to improve safety and visibility.

Tackling these winter prep tasks early is not just about safety; it's an investment in operational continuity and building integrity. Addressing small issues now can prevent larger, costlier emergencies during the harshest months. Schedule inspections or review service contracts today to get ahead of the winter weather.