Commercial Building Maintenance Tips for Autumn
While regular maintenance is essential for all commercial buildings, it becomes even more important as winter approaches. Poorly maintained properties can be susceptible to increased damage or left without vital services, hindering an organisation’s ability to do business.
However, organisations can help their commercial properties remain fully functional during the colder months by planning ahead and completing maintenance in autumn. Adequate maintenance may also help organisations comply with health and safety regulations, reduce workplace injuries and avoid unforeseen repair costs. Consider these maintenance tips for autumn:
Inspect the roof.
Conducting a roof inspection before winter can help identify any weak points that may require repairs before heavy rainfall approaches. Specifically, strong winds and storms can damage weak or dislodged roof slates and tiles. Ensure all loose tiles are repaired or replaced.
Clear the gutters.
Gutters and drains can quickly fill with leaves, sticks and other debris. If left unchecked, this may result in water damage and mould. Prevent buildups and clogs before they happen by conducting regular gutter maintenance to ensure water flows freely.
Check windows.
Over time, window frames can degrade. Proactively assess windows, checking for weak points and worn window seals. Better still, draught-proof windows reduce heat loss and associated energy bills, which is advantageous in the current cost-of-living crisis.
Review outdoor areas.
When trees start losing leaves, paved areas outdoors can experience a buildup of leaf mould and algae, presenting a potential trip hazard. Keep grounds properly maintained, check outside lights and stock grit in readiness for icy weather.
Assess backup plans.
Adverse winter weather can result in power cuts. Prepare for such an eventuality by inspecting backup power sources to ensure they work as expected.
Proper building maintenance in autumn is essential to aid organisations in avoiding unexpected expenses and remaining fully functional during the colder months. Our risk management team have many resources and guides to help you reduce your risk and hopefully, improve your insurance premium prices over the coming years. Get in touch today.