Essential Winter Prep Tips for Commercial Properties

As winter approaches, commercial property owners and managers face unique challenges. Proactive planning is key to avoiding costly repairs and ensuring that daily operations run smoothly while keeping all building occupants safe. Here are some practical, yet impactful tips to help you prepare.

Interior Prep

• Have your HVAC system professionally serviced. This includes replacing filters, checking for leaks, and testing the thermostat 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 by testing functionality, replacing batteries, and confirming they haven’t expired.
• Test backup power systems, like generators or battery packs, to 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

• 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 for what 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 offers numerous benefits. Think of this effort as an investment in operational continuity, occupant safety, and building integrity. Addressing small issues now can prevent larger, costlier emergencies during the harshest months. Be proactive; schedule inspections or review service contracts today to get ahead of winter weather.