Cold weather poses unique challenges to businesses, leading to property damage, increased liability risks, and potential shutdowns. The Hartford reports that 15% of small business claims are due to water and freezing damage, underscoring the need for proper insurance and preventive measures. Here’s how to shield your business from winter’s impact:

  1. Prevent Water Damage from Frozen Pipes: Cold snaps can freeze water in pipes, causing them to burst and inflict serious damage on your property, including floors, walls, and valuable inventory. To avoid this, insulate your building, seal cracks, maintain a consistent interior temperature, and allow faucets to drip during extreme cold to prevent pressure buildup. A backup power source can also keep your premises warm during power outages.
  2. Avoid Roof Collapse Under Heavy Snow: Excessive snowfall can overwhelm and collapse roofs. Regularly removing snow, especially after significant storms, is crucial. Hiring a licensed and insured professional for snow removal can prevent damage and ensure safety.
  3. Minimize Slip-and-Fall Hazards: Ice and snow increase the risk of slip-and-fall accidents, which can lead to costly lawsuits. Business and workers’ compensation insurance offer coverage, but prevention is key. Implement a winter weather plan that includes clearing walkways, salting icy areas, using non-skid mats, and maintaining a safety log of your efforts.
  4. Manage Shutdowns Due to Winter Storms: Severe winter weather can force temporary closures, impacting your income. Business income insurance is vital for recouping lost revenue during shutdowns. Promptly reporting property and equipment damage to your insurer can also speed up repairs and minimize further losses.

Understanding and preparing for these winter risks can help protect your business from significant financial and operational setbacks.