If you are a commercial property owner or anticipate being one in the next coming months, it’s important to know how to prepare it for winter. Cold temperatures, snow, and ice in the midwest can have a great impact on your building, and if the building isn’t properly prepared, you may run into some issues. Following these tips for preparing your commercial property for the winter.
Prepare the Entrances
It’s vital to make sure all entrances and exits to your building are winter-ready and can handle inclement weather. You should invest in good matts so snowy, muddy boots and shoes can be wiped on them instead of the ground. If the grounds tend to be slippery, late out non-slip runners and matts to prevent any falls. Ensure there is proper heating right as tenants or anyone else walks in.
Get Heating Systems Serviced
The last thing you want is for your heating to not work in the dead of winter. Making sure that all HVAC systems including heating and air quality control are working effectively is vital for a comfortable space.
Check the Roof
A small roof issue could lead to a large problem. When storms happen in the wintertime, it may cause shingles or tiles to loosen up, which can then lead to roofing leaks. This leaks can easily cause expensive repairs severe property damage. Getting your roof inspected ahead of the winter season can prevent a lot of unwanted stress and damage.
Check For Drafts
Even if the heat in the building is on, if there are drafts in the building, the inside will most likely be cold. Not only does this create an unpleasant experience for those inside, but it will also cause your heating bills to skyrocket, as your heating will have to work extra hard to account for the cold air getting in. Make sure all doors and windows have weather stripping or draft guards if needed.
Monitor the Thermostat
Make sure the thermostat in the building is always at a comfortable temperature. Even if there are vacant units, or your building shuts down for a certain amount of time over the holidays, the thermostat should never be below 50 degrees. If it is, your pipes might freeze and burst, leading to hefty water damage and costly repairs.
Contact Us Today
For all of your commercial property needs, Frontline Real Estate Partners is here to help. From sales, to leasing, to buyer and tenant representation, to receivership and more, our professional team has years of experience in the real estate industry. We understand the ins and outs of the market and can help guide you through the processes. For Chicago Property Mangegement companies in the area, call us today.
