With winter kicking into high gear, ensuring your commercial property is ready for the cold temperatures, snow, and ice should be a top priority. Proper preparation will not only protect your business and assets, but also help you maintain a safe, comfortable, and efficient operation.
For businesses that partner with professional commercial property management in the winter, peace of mind is just one of the many benefits, knowing their buildings are proactively protected. To keep your property well-maintained through the winter months, here are our top tips to prepare your commercial building for the winter weather.
1. Perform Regular Roof Inspections & Maintenance Tasks
Snow and ice can take their toll over the winter—especially in Calgary. They accumulate over the colder months and can cause leaks or costly structural damage. To keep your commercial property protected, inspect your roof for loose shingles, cracks, or drainage issues, and clear gutters to prevent ice dams. Consider scheduling a maintenance call to identify and fix any vulnerabilities before they become major issues.
2. Manage Your Landscaping & Grounds
To manage damage from ice-laden branches this winter, trim trees and shrubs surrounding your commercial property. Clear pathways of snow and ice, and ensure the landscape is graded away from your building to avoid water pooling near foundations. Maintaining your grounds reduces slip hazards and protects your property’s exterior.
3. Assess Your Heating Systems
Inspect, test, and service your heating systems regularly to keep them running efficiently throughout the winter. Replace filters, check thermostats, and consider upgrading any older units. Proper heating will ensure your tenants stay comfortable and can prevent costly cold-related damage.
4. Seal Your Windows & Doors
Prevent drafts and heat loss by checking the seals around your windows and doors. Replace any worn-out or cracked weatherstripping and caulking, and ensure windows are closed tightly. Efficient windows and doors can substantially reduce your energy costs and improve comfort levels.
5. Check Your Pipes
No one likes coming to work to find frozen or burst pipes—both major risks through the winter months. To prevent this, insulate exposed pipes, drain outdoor faucets, and check for any leaks. Regular maintenance can minimize the risk of costly weather damage during Calgary’s frequent cold snaps.
6. Inspect Exterior Walls & Foundations
Cracks or gaps in your commercial property’s foundation can lead to serious moisture intrusion and structural issues. Inspect your property’s walls and foundation for any signs of damage or moisture—this can help protect it during Calgary’s troublesome freeze-thaw
cycle.
7. Maintain Equipment & Machinery
Winter can strain HVAC units, generators, and other critical equipment. Schedule preventive maintenance, ensure proper lubrication, and check operation to avoid unexpected failures.
8. Clear Away Ice & Snow
Develop a snow and ice management plan. Keep sidewalks, entrances, parking lots, and loading zones clear. Contracting professional snow removal services ensures timely and safe access to your property.
9. Ensure Your Property is Well Lit
Shorter days mean reduced natural light. Protect your property by inspecting the interior and exterior lights for proper operation. Replace any burnt-out lightbulbs and schedule repairs as needed. Well-lit parking lots, entrances, and pathways will improve safety and deter vandalism.
10. Keep Pests Out
Cold weather drives pests indoors. Inspect your commercial property for gaps or entry points, and schedule pest control treatments as needed to prevent an infestation during the winter months.
11. Review Your Insurance Policy
Winter weather increases the risk of property damage. Review your insurance policies to ensure you’re covered for snow, ice, and cold-related incidents. Update your policy to help mitigate financial risk during the winter.
Partner With a Commercial Property Management Company to Keep Winter From Becoming a Major Liability
Managing a commercial property during Calgary winters presents its own set of challenges. At CMS Real Estate, we provide expert commercial property management in winter to ensure all aspects—from preventative maintenance to snow removal and tenant safety—are handled efficiently. With proactive management, you can protect your investment and maintain smooth operations no matter what winter throws at you.
With our attention to detail and proactive approach, CMS Real Estate can ensure your commercial property is winter-ready and safeguarded against potential risks and damage. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call CMS Real Estate today!