Orlando, Fla.—Before any storm or hurricane approaches the big questions all business owners may need to ask themselves is: What could go wrong? 

To protect your business against severe and extreme weather conditions like hurricanes it takes not only the right materials as well as good ongoing maintenance prior to the arrival of the anticipated emergency.

To maintain capability of your commercial property of overcome severe weather conditions you must address at least 10 vulnerable areas described below:

1. The roof cover is one of the most vulnerable components of your building while exposed to the elements of a hurricane. Good routine maintenance can prolong the life of your roof cover and can reduce roof damage during an event, therefore saving you money and potential business interruption.

2. Roof flashing are strips of metal or other material installed around the roof edge where the roof cover meets the wall. When the flashing is compromised, it leaves important building systems, including the roof cover, vulnerable to hazards such as wind-driven rain, which can cause significant damage.

3. During a high-wind event, unsecured roof-mounted equipment is subject to sliding, lifting, and overturning. This can cause significant damage to a roof cover and water intrusion, causing damages to products and/or equipment inside your building. This could happen in a critical area where you least expected to have damages to repair.

4. When damaged or not properly attached, skylights can cause a breech in the building envelope, leading to significant interior damage. Make sure to regularly inspect skylights for cracks and leaks; also inspect securements to the curb and address any rotting. This is an easy routine task that can prevent serious trouble especially during storm season.

5. Outdoor signs and inventory can become windborne debris if not adequately secured or stored. Before a storm, it is best to verify that sign connections are adequate or remove it to properly store. Also, store outdoor inventory in a safe location protected from high winds.

6. For some commercial properties, the use of air conditioning PTAC units is very common. Before a storm, check these units to make sure they are properly installed and will be able to resist wind-driven rain. Costly damage can be caused by the leakage of these units.

7. Lightning protection systems can serve as defense against dangerous lightning strikes to your building. However, if they are not properly attached, they are no longer capable of providing the intended protection; this also can cause damage to other structures or roof components during a hurricane. Proper maintenance of these systems is of outmost importance.

8. An onsite generator is a critical defense against electrical interruption and business downtime. Business and building owners should always operate and maintain generators in accordance with manufacturer recommendations, including periodic testing and refreshing of fuel (for portable generators).

9. Commercial doors are common on commercial properties and play an imperative role in productivity. When damaged by wind or debris, these doors can lead to costly roof and interior damage. Consider contacting a commercial door contractor to determine if your doors are properly wind rated. Retrofit improvements can be cost-effective.

10. Keeping wind and water out of your business is key to survival during a hurricane. All windows and glass in doors should be properly protected with impact-rated glass or a shutter system. Proper maintenance ensures the strength and easy deployment of these protection systems well before landfall of a storm.

At Garzor Insurance our experienced professionals are dedicated to providing commercial insurance, including business general liability coverage in Florida as well as Georgia, Texas, and now many other states across the U.S.A. If you have questions about business insurance, or any other commercial insurance aspects, please do not hesitate to visit us online at Garzor Insurance, or you may want to call us directly at (321) 206-8035. 

Mariana Morante

Licensed Insurance Agent