With winter just around the corner, commercial property owners face the unique challenges of protecting their buildings against the cold. Proactive planning not only helps avoid costly repairs but also ensures smooth daily operations and the safety of all building occupants. Here’s how simple steps can make a significant difference in preparing your property for the winter months.

Interior Prep

• Ensure your HVAC system is serviced professionally, focusing on filter replacement, leak checks, and thermostat testing to boost reliability and efficiency.
• Seal gaps around windows and doors using caulk or weatherstripping to prevent heat leakage.
• Wrap exposed pipes in unheated spaces to prevent freezing and potential flooding.
• Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors by testing functionality, replacing batteries, and confirming they haven't expired.
• Test backup power systems, such as generators or battery packs, and ensure fuel or charge levels are sufficient with systems functioning under load.
• Update internal emergency plans and ensure contact information is posted in visible areas; communicate procedures clearly to all staff and tenants.

Exterior Prep

• Examine the roof for signs of wear, such as sagging, broken shingles, or blocked drainage, and address issues before heavy snowfall arrives.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages and ice dam formation.
• Confirm snow removal contracts or restock supplies if managing in-house; review responsibilities 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.
• Conduct a property walk-through after dark to test lighting; replace bulbs and consider upgrading fixtures for improved safety and visibility.

By tackling these winter prep tasks early, you are investing in operational continuity, occupant safety, and the integrity of your building. Addressing small issues now can prevent larger, more costly emergencies during the harshest months. We encourage you to schedule inspections or review service contracts today to ensure you're ahead of the winter weather.