The arrival of spring offers moderate weather and milder temperatures in many areas of the U.S. However, spring weather can also bring potential damage and workplace claims to your business and property. Consider these four key steps to help ensure your company is prepared for the new season.
1. Be Ready for Severe Weather
Ensure the roof and walls of your property can withstand high winds and reinforce the structure if necessary. If your building was not constructed with wind mitigation techniques, you may need to consider adding safety elements such as bracing or strapping the roof, or wind-resistant materials to entry doors. Repair loose or damaged shingles and siding. In a tornado or hailstorm, these can break off, allowing damaging rain or hail to penetrate the building’s structure.
For more information on protecting your business from severe weather, visit DisasterSafety.org.
2. Clear Debris from the Property
Fallen trees are responsible for nearly 70 percent of the time residential and commercial property owners spend without power, according to DTE Energy. Trim trees on the property to prevent dead or loose limbs from breaking off and causing building damage or downed wires. In a tornado or hurricane, items such as wooden pallets, dumpsters or forklifts can become airborne and cause damage to your building. If you are unable to clear these items from the property after each use, ensure sure they are secured to the ground when possible.
3. Consider Aerial Facility Inspections
Aerial imagery provides high-resolution satellite images for commercial properties of all sizes, including roofs, pools, fencing, and more. This innovative technology can reduce the need for physical inspections, providing records of property conditions for improved insurance quoting and underwriting accuracy. It can also reduce future property losses through risk analysis.
4. Back-Up Your Data Offsite
Property damage can cause business interruption. In the event of damage, you may not be able to access or use any of the equipment on the property for several days or even weeks. Arrange for secure, offsite electronic storage of your business records and data, and make sure these records are scheduled to be backed up each day. By securing your data offsite, you will be able to access it and restore it quickly, enabling you to continue business operations.
Learn more about how to apply these tips: Contact your Amerisure risk management consultant.
