Spring Maintenance Checklist for Your Commercial Property

8/26/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your commercial property in tip-top shape!

As we begin to transition from cold weather temperatures to warmer spring weather, here is a checklist of points on your property to check for winter damage and begin planning repairs. Compared to our typical North Dakota winter, this one has been pretty mild. But, there was still a handful of weather events that had the potential for major damage. As our state continues thawing out, here are some things to check over and ensure for quality. 

We are currently in a dangerous time of the year as daytime temperatures begin regularly going over 32 degrees, and the nighttime temperatures continue to dip well below the freezing point. The cycle of thawing and freezing can have a harsh effect on many parts of your building. Things like pipes, window seals, and drainage systems can become blocked or damaged. These should be constantly maintained throughout the year with a heavy focus during the winter and early spring months.

Additionally, here are things to look for during spring inspection:

• Pipes with minimal water flow
• Poor drainage pipes
• Cracks in the foundation, walkways, parking lots and patios
• Broken or loose pavement
• Sink holes
• Missing roof shingles
• Separation or erosion in siding and masonry 
• Rotting or loose boards
• Chipped paint
• Broken, cracked, or leaky windows
• Landscaping debris such as leaves or branches

If you notice any of the damages listed above, you should start making preparations for repairs. Additionally, be sure to contact your insurance company if you suspect the cause of damage. While you may not have noticed the damage until days, weeks, or months later, it is still possible that you have not yet exceeded the timeline to file an insurance claim. For example, if a windstorm caused damage to your roof, but you were unable to get a roof inspection due to the cold, slippery conditions, you can still file a claim and be covered. When in doubt it never hurts to ask your insurance company if your damage is covered.