Preparing Small Businesses for Winter

10/10/2019 (Permalink)

In the past month, we’ve talked about preparing our homes for winter, but if you own a small business, you should also consider preparing your business for the oncoming season. By preparing for the winter, you can avoid any hazardous situations that could delay your day to day business operations.

The first steps are to check out the building of your business. Look for any leaks in the roof or any cracks near the doors. A leaky roof and cracks near the door can cause water damage in your building, which could possibly shut your business down for a few days while repairs are occurring. If you notice any of these things, contact your landlord to make sure they are taken care of before winter weather arrives. Also, ask if building maintenance clears the snow or ice from the sidewalks in front of your business. If they don’t, make sure you have a plan to make sure these things are removed in a timely manner. 

Another tip is to contact your insurance to see exactly what is covered under their storm coverage. Burst pipes are likely to happen in the winter, and without proper cleanup, the water can cause mold and become a major problem. Make sure that any cleanup would be covered under your insurance to avoid costly repairs. Also, any damage from a winter storm, such as damage from hail or snow, should be covered under insurance. Make sure all these things and more are covered to prepare for the weather.

Lastly, if you’re at work while a winter storm emergency is taking place, make sure to have a plan as to what to do to protect yourself and your employees. It’s a good idea to have food and water in case leaving work is difficult. 

This winter, make sure your business is ready for any winter storms by using these tips and SERVPRO of Norridge/Harwood Heights hopes you have a safe and productive winter!