Spring Maintenance Checklist for Your Commercial Property

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

As we begin to transition from cold winter 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 still, 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° the nighttime temperatures continue to dip well below that freezing point. This 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 your 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
• Separations or erosion in siding and masonry
• Rotting or loose boards
• Chipped paint
• Broken, cracked, or leaking windows
• Landscaping debris such as fallen leaves or branches

If you notice any of the damages listed above, you can begin 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 you have not 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.