6 Steps to Storm Damage Safety
Use DANE’s Storm Damage Prevention Checklist to protect your building from destructive wind, flooding, and other unpredictable weather.
With winter's snow finally giving way to spring rain, many property managers make the mistake of easing up on seasonal maintenance, but the storms ahead could mean greater damage than ever.
The rain this year has already caused record flooding, and we're just getting started. If it's been a while since your building has seen an inspection, chances are the winter's heavy ice, snow, freeze-thaw cycle, and let's not forget salt, has had some kind of effect on your structure.
Use DANE’s Storm Damage Prevention Checklist to protect your building from destructive wind, flooding, and other unpredictable weather:
Inspect the condition of your parking lot, walkways, and foundation for signs of deterioration.
Check that your roofing materials and its components, including vents, gutters, and downspouts, are working and securely attached.
Trim back shrubs, trees, and branches that are vulnerable or too close to your structure.
Secure storage sheds, fencing, light fixtures, HVAC units, and other features to the ground, and store loose equipment that could get tossed around.
Make sure seams and joints, especially windows and door frames, are sufficiently sealed for structural integrity and interior preservation.
Park vehicles inside a garage if possible, and avoid parking under trees in an approaching storm.
The last thing you want to do is panic as a storm nears your property. With annual inspections and routine best practices, you'll tackle the precautions needed to face those oncoming elements, and avoid dangerous, expensive emergency repairs later.