Help prepare your business for winter weather

Getting ready for winter weather is important for businesses, no matter how big or small they are. By taking the necessary steps to prepare, you can help to reduce the impact of disruptions and keep your customers, employees and establishment safe.

To help you protect what you work so hard for, below is a list of several vulnerabilities the colder months can cause to your business and ways to help mitigate the risks.

1. Storm damage

When a storm is approaching, take precautions to secure or remove loose objects like signage, umbrellas and outdoor furniture to prevent them from turning into projectiles that can damage property and contents.

Winter storms can cause significant damage to buildings, roofs, walls and windows. Snow, high winds and ice accumulation can all contribute to structural damage, and in worst-case scenarios, buildings can even collapse.

To help safeguard your business, it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect a building’s roof, walls, windows and doors during the summer months, identifying and repairing any areas that may be susceptible to winter damage.

2. Water damage

Roof leaks, burst pipes and frozen pipes are common causes of water damage. This can result in flooding, mould growth and severe water-related destruction. To help prevent this, ensure that gutters and drains on your business’s premises are clear of debris, insulate pipes to prevent freezing and bursting, and know the location of the main water shutoff valve in case a pipe does burst.

3. Glass and hail damage

From smashing windows, damaging roofs, denting cars and causing structural damage, hailstorms can leave quite a mess. But fear not: there are ways to protect your business’s property and keep it safe from the wrath of hailstorms.

One option is to install impact-resistant glass designed to withstand the force of hailstones. Another way to avoid damage to your glass is by regularly maintaining your trees and landscaping. Trimming overhanging branches and removing weak trees will prevent them from falling and causing destruction. Just be cautious when dealing with tree-trimming situations: while small trees and shrubs can typically be managed independently, taller trees and overhanging branches close to powerlines require a professional arborist.

4. Power outages

Winter storms can knock out power lines, leading to power outages that can last for days. This can be particularly damaging for businesses that rely on electricity to operate. Consider installing a backup generator to keep critical systems running during a power outage. And keep a supply of emergency items on hand, such as an emergency kit that includes torches, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food and water.

5. Unexpected accidents

Wet winter environments can sometimes cause slip-and-fall accidents, resulting in injuries and liability claims. Be sure to clean up wet messes as soon as you notice them, and keep walkways and entrances clear of snow and ice to prevent accidents.

6. Equipment damage

In preparation for winter, it’s important to closely inspect your equipment and inventory before and after a severe weather event like a storm. The impact of weather on your equipment may vary depending on the nature of your business. Nonetheless, prioritising equipment maintenance and inventory management become even more critical when the potential for damage from a winter storm exists.

It’s crucial to create an inventory list well before a storm hits. Write a list and take photographs of your stock so that if you need to make an insurance claim, you have hard evidence of all your business contents. Detailed documentation can simplify the claims process and help your insurer determine how best to replace or compensate you for damaged goods.

7. Reduced productivity

Winter weather can disrupt business operations and cause delays, reducing productivity and lost revenue. It’s crucial to ensure that effective communication channels remain open during a severe weather event.

Given the unpredictability of weather patterns, internal communication with employees is crucial, both in preparation for the winter season and during a severe weather event. Educating employees on emergency protocols and maintaining clear communication channels are crucial preventive measures you can take to ensure your team is equipped to handle any unexpected challenges.

8. Insurance coverage

By taking these steps, you can help prevent damage from winter weather and minimise the impact of any losses. And remember, one of the best ways to secure peace of mind is to review your NRMA Business Insurance coverage to check whether your insurance policies are up to date and provide adequate coverage for potential winter-related losses.

Get prepared with the NRMA Insurance app

If your business is faced with an unlucky spout of winter woes, we’re here to help. Simply call us on 132 818, make a Business Insurance Claim online or download the NRMA Insurance app to easily manage your policies, payments and claims all in one place. The plus side of having the app on your phone means you can get support when you need it at the simple touch of your fingertips.

Download the NRMA Insurance app for iPhones here.

Download the NRMA Insurance app for Androids here.

To find out more about NRMA Business Insurance, call us on 132 132 to get a quote or find us online 24/7 at nrma.com.au.