Commercial wind damage protection tips

High velocity winds can damage your business property, including your vehicles, in a matter of minutes. After all, it's impossible to predict the timing, strength and potential damage of any storm.

A few preventive measures, along with windstorm insurance, can help lower the risk of damage to your property and save you money in repairs and lost productivity.

Make sure your roof can handle high winds

To make sure your company's roof is protected against wind damage, have it inspected for the following:

• Shingles meet or exceed the local building code and are rated high for wind and impact resistance
• Shingles are snugly nailed down and fitted tightly together
• The roof sheathing is securely nailed down
• The connection between the roof and walls is tight enough to keep updrafts from lifting off the roof
• HVAC units, skylights and pipes are tightly affixed and won't be blown off

Windstorm protection tips for exterior walls and doors

To make sure your building's exterior is protected from wind damage, check the following:

• The building is well sealed to prevent wind from getting in cracks and crevices and causing interior damage
• Siding and windows are tightly attached
• All entry doors are triple-hinged and secured with a deadbolt lock for maximum windstorm protection
• Overhead doors are braced sufficiently and able to withstand high winds

Windstorm protection tips for outdoor areas

To make sure the grounds around your property are protected from wind damage, check the following:

• Storage sheds and outbuildings are securely anchored
• Everything you have stored outside (such as equipment, inventory and supplies) is anchored or can be easily moved inside if a storm approaches
• Dumpsters, outdoor lighting fixtures and fencing are secured
• Large shrubs and trees close to your building are healthy and pruned
• Outdoor signage is tightly anchored and secure, and designed to withstand the weather in your region (Check with your insurer to see if your sign is included in your property insurance or if you need an endorsement to cover it)
• Your commercial property insurance covers any damage to your building or other business property caused by a windstorm

Windstorm protection tips for your vehicles and fleet

To make sure company vehicles are protected from wind damage, do the following:

• If possible, store vehicles inside a garage or storage building
• Never park vehicles under a tree during an approaching storm
• If you must park vehicles outdoors, be aware of things that could cause damage such as branches, lampposts and power lines
• If a windstorm approaches, consider sending fleet vehicles home with approved drivers