WINTERIZE YOUR PROPERTY
One way commercial property is just like residential property is that it has to be properly prepared for the winter months, especially if it is located in an area prone to harsh winters.
We know most of our clients are well versed in property care and maintenance being HOA Managers, Property Managers, General Contractors, and other experts in the business. However, we also know how busy everyone is these days and thought we could offer some tips and tricks to ensure you aren’t scrambling when that first big snow hits!
COLORADO WINTER WILL BE COLD AND SNOWY
The 21/22 winter is expected to be a blustering one here in Colorado and with labor shortages due to the COVID-19 virus, you will want to start a process of preparing your commercial building for winter---ASAP.
Cold temperatures and winter storms can severely damage commercial property, resulting in costly repairs and possible disruption of tenant business or decreases in the property’s value.
STAY ON TASK WHEN EXTENDING THE LIFE OF BUILDING REPAIRS
With the multitude of tasks and details required to maintain a building, it is difficult to remember all that is necessary. Our best tip is to develop a preventative maintenance program with weekly tasks lists that can be checked off. This will help everyone stay on track and maintain consistency.
MAINTAIN YOUR PROPERTY
Here are a few things that our experts have shared with us as best practices for winterizing your property.
- Have your HVAC serviced immediately to prevent costly winter repairs.
- Check your roof both NOW and again in the spring to make sure there are no problems with loose tiles or shingles. Loose or damaged shingles can result in leaks that can cause severe damage to your property, including mold damage.
- Eliminate drafts. Gaps around windows and doors let cold air into your property during the winter, running up heating bills for your tenants. Make sure all exterior doors and windows have weather stripping and caulking--sealing gaps can help eliminate energy-wasting gaps.
- Clean your gutters. Make sure your gutters are clear of leaves and other debris that may have fallen during the autumn months. Clogged gutters can lead to water accumulating on your roof, which can cause leaks and expensive water damage.
- Order all of your snowmelt, shovels, and other necessary items now--so that when that first early Colorado snow hits, you are prepared. With supply chain issues impacting every industry, it is best to not wait until ice and snowmelt is needed before ordering. This helps keep your tenants safe and feeling secure, knowing that you are ready.
- Make sure you have been in touch with and are clear on any changes to your existing snow removal service. Labor shortages have forced businesses, like snow removal companies, to cut back on clients and also to increase pricing.
- Winter is the flu and cold season. Make sure that all of your common areas have the basics: hand sanitizer, wipes, masks, and anything else that would keep your community healthy. Consider putting up signs that encourage good hygiene in common spaces.
There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution when it comes to maintaining all buildings and facilities – each space is unique in it’s own way. Not to mention, the budget, weather and wear in every location can vary drastically.
However, these several tips mentioned above are great considerations to keep in mind as you prepare your facility for winter. A little preparation now will help you prevent disaster later.
What do you do to prepare your facility for winter? Is there anything you would add to this list?
