As the winter season approaches, commercial property owners and managers face unique challenges that require proactive planning. Not only is preparation crucial to prevent costly repairs, but it also ensures smooth day-to-day operations and the safety of all building occupants. While the task may seem daunting, simple steps can significantly impact your property's readiness for the harsh winter months.

Interior Prep

• Wrap exposed pipes in unheated spaces to prevent them from freezing and potentially flooding your property.
• Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors by testing their functionality, replacing batteries, and confirming that they haven't expired to maintain safety standards.
• Have your HVAC system professionally serviced, including filter replacement, leak checks, and thermostat testing, to boost reliability and efficiency during the cold months.
• Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal any gaps around windows and doors that could let heat escape and cold air in.
• Test backup power systems, such as 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

• Inspect parking areas and walkways for damage that could worsen in icy conditions; fix issues now and have salt or sand ready for slip prevention.
• Examine the roof for signs of wear, such as sagging, broken shingles, or blocked drainage; address issues before heavy snowfall arrives.
• Confirm snow removal contracts or restock supplies if managing in-house; review who is responsible for specific tasks and ensure timely response plans.
• Walk the property after dark to test lighting; replace bulbs and consider upgrading fixtures to improve safety and visibility during the longer nights of winter.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages and ice dam formation, which can lead to leaks and damage.

By tackling these winter prep tasks early, you invest in your operation's continuity, occupant safety, and the integrity of your building. Addressing small issues now can prevent larger, more costly emergencies during winter's harshest months. Take action today—schedule inspections or review service contracts to get ahead of the winter weather and ensure your commercial property is ready to face the season head-on.