A survey from First Onsite – a Canadian property restoration company – found 43 per cent of business interruptions over the past five years have taken place due to winter storms.
It also found that 56 per cent of businesses are concerned about future winter storms and the damage they can cause and that only 37 per cent of businesses feel fully prepared to deal with future emergencies or disasters.
Director of Client Solutions for First Onsite, Brendan Murphy, said for businesses and homeowners, the best way to prepare for winter is to keep it simple.
“Have a written plan in place of some sort, it doesn’t have to be sophisticated, you almost want to start at the top of the building, if it’s a building you’re managing check the roof if it’s safe to do so, ensure the drains and gutters are free of debris to allow melting snow to properly drain.”
As well as check the building’s heat system, look over exterior pipes for cracks that can lead to water leakage and freezing and have an expert examine your HVAC system.
“Ensure your HVAC service provider is completing their maintenance activities, they typically provide you with a deficiency list, and deal with it at that time.”
Murphy added commercial landowners should routinely check property during cold periods, at least once per week during the coldest months and winter storms, to identify a potential issue before it becomes a problem.
As well, inspect for moisture and mould buildup as ice and snow can quickly turn to water that seeps through foundations.
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