Past winters have been particularly brutal for many across the country, with historic snowfall piling up in some places and bitterly cold temperatures plaguing cities from coast to coast. These extreme conditions can cause major damage to buildings and other structures, requiring their owners to shell out quite a bit of cash for repairs and replacements. This issue affects a wide array of property managers, from business owners to condominiums and apartment complexes. Here are five ways property managers can protect their assets this winter.
1. Managing Snow
The first thing needing to be tackled when winter hits is any snowfall accumulation on your property. This includes removing snow and ice from steps, sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. Not only does this protect your physical property, but it also mitigates the risk of injury to anyone occupying or visiting your building. This can help you avoid costly liability insurance claims in the event that someone falls. It is equally as important to remove snow from the roof of your building. Roofs can suffer damage from the weight of heavy snowfall and ice buildup creating greater potential for damage if water makes its way through the roof into your building. Landlords may hire a landscape management team to assist with snow and ice removal during the winter months. This service comes at a price but will save you money in the long run.
2. Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Diligent property managers will inspect their buildings regularly to ensure that there are no signs of damage or potential risks for damage down the road. Regular maintenance will help your building stay protected from cold downpours, winds, and other harsh weather conditions. Even after the winter season is over, these inspections continue consistently to ensure that their structures are in good condition. This can be done by checking them after every storm and following any maintenance instructions that might be noted.
3. Repairing Leaks and Water Damage
While leaks occurring on roofs tend to be more costly than those occurring on walls or floors, all leaks require the utmost immediate attention. Landlords can equip themselves with a leak detection tool to quickly find the source of water damage. They should also make necessary repairs as soon as a leak is detected, especially leaks that are caused by snow and ice build-up. Do not rely on temporary solutions to get you and your building through the winter. You should have the issue remedied by a professional as soon as possible. After the temperatures warm up, property managers can hire an inspection company to verify that everything is working properly. This way, any additional repairs can be made prior to next seasons snowfall.
4. Controlling Mold
Mold and mildew can create serious issues for property managers, causing expensive and extensive repairs. Not only do mold and mildew compromise structural integrity, but they can also cause health issues in humans that may result in medical costs. Property owners need to be aware of the products they are using in their buildings and take any necessary steps to control the risk of mold growth. Mold removal should be conducted by professionals with the proper equipment and the necessary training to avoid damage to the structure or other persons.
5. Avoiding Frozen Pipes
Once you have taken care of their roofs, leaks, and other concerns, it is time to focus on the pipes. Frozen pipes can be a significant problem for many buildings during the winter months. This is when the water inside the pipe freezes so quickly that it causes damage to the pipes or structure itself. Avoiding frozen pipes is essential to protecting your building and your pocketbook. Building owners should do so by ensuring that the water supply has been routinely checked for leaks and by keeping a water heater in good working condition. Anti-freezing sprays can also be used to prevent pipes from freezing.
Conclusion
Winter is a time when many property managers are concerned with protecting their assets and taking precautions against potential damage. As mentioned, staying aware of the weather, making repairs as soon as they occur, and avoiding snow and ice accumulation at all costs are imperative for protecting your property this winter.
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