How to Handle Winter Storms: Service Tips for Property Managers

Winter Storm

Winter storms can bring a host of challenges for property managers. From snow and ice accumulation to freezing temperatures, the impact on properties can be significant. Whether you manage residential complexes, commercial buildings, or mixed-use spaces, it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve and have a solid plan for handling the seasonal weather.

At Wynnow, we specialize in maintenance, repair, and renovation services, and we understand the unique demands that winter weather places on properties. In this blog, we’ll share expert tips to help property managers ensure their buildings remain safe, functional, and comfortable during winter storms.

1. Snow Removal: Ensuring Accessibility and Safety

Snow accumulation can disrupt property access and create dangerous conditions. Effective snow removal not only keeps walkways and driveways clear but also helps maintain the overall safety of the property.

Key Tips:

  • Plan Ahead with a Snow Removal Service: Before winter arrives, establish a contract with a snow removal company. Ensure they understand your specific needs, such as clearing sidewalks, parking areas, and pathways, within a few hours after a snowfall.
  • Prioritize Common Areas: Focus on high-traffic areas first—entrances, walkways, and parking lots. Ensure that snow is removed as soon as possible to prevent dangerous ice formation.
  • Use the Right Ice-Melting Products: Spread salt, calcium chloride, or an environmentally friendly alternative on walkways to prevent ice from forming. Avoid sand, as it can damage surfaces and create a mess.
  • Monitor During Storms: If a snowstorm is ongoing, it’s important to monitor and reapply de-icing products as needed. Keeping up with snow removal during the storm is key to preventing large accumulations.

2. Emergency Plumbing Services: Protecting Against Freezing and Leaks

Frozen Pipe

Freezing temperatures pose a serious risk to plumbing systems, especially for pipes located in uninsulated areas. A burst pipe can cause significant damage, so it’s important to take preventative measures and be ready for emergencies.

Key Tips:

  • Pipe Insulation is Essential: Ensure all vulnerable pipes, especially those in attics, basements, or exterior walls, are properly insulated to prevent freezing. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to provide extra protection.
  • Notify Tenants of Preventative Steps: Encourage tenants to leave cabinet doors open under sinks and let faucets drip during extreme cold weather. These simple steps can help prevent pipes from freezing.
  • Inspect Before the Cold Hits: Before the winter season, conduct a thorough inspection of your plumbing system to identify and repair any existing issues like leaks or worn-out pipes. This will help prevent bigger problems down the line.
  • Have an Emergency Plumber on Speed Dial: It’s important to have a reliable plumbing professional available to handle emergencies quickly—particularly during severe weather conditions when frozen pipes are likely.

3. Maintaining Safe Walkways: Preventing Slip and Fall Incidents

With ice and snow accumulating on sidewalks, driveways, and stairs, maintaining safe walkways is crucial to prevent tenant injuries and reduce your liability.

Key Tips:

  • Regularly Salt High-Risk Areas: Even after snow has been cleared, ice can still form. Make sure to regularly apply salt or an ice-melting solution to prevent slip-and-fall accidents, especially on stairways and ramps.
  • Ensure Adequate Lighting: Poor visibility can lead to accidents, especially when snow obscures walkways. Check that all outdoor lighting is functioning properly, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic.
  • Use Non-Slip Mats in High-Traffic Areas: Place non-slip mats or rubber flooring in entrances or particularly icy spots. This offers an added layer of protection, especially where snow tends to accumulate and melt.
  • Respond to Complaints Promptly: If tenants report icy conditions or unsafe walkways, address the issue immediately. Responding to complaints quickly helps mitigate the risk of injuries and ensures tenant satisfaction.

4. Heating Systems: Keeping Tenants Warm and Safe

HVAC Maintenace

Winter temperatures can place added stress on heating systems, which are vital for tenant comfort and safety. Regular maintenance and quick responses to heating issues will help ensure the building stays warm.

Key Tips:

  • Schedule Pre-Season HVAC Inspections: Ensure your heating systems are ready for winter by scheduling inspections and maintenance. Check for problems like clogged filters, inefficient thermostats, and potential malfunctions.
  • Keep Vents and Chimneys Clear: Blocked air vents or chimneys can lead to dangerous situations like carbon monoxide buildup. Ensure all heating systems are clear of debris and functioning properly.
  • Provide Clear Instructions to Tenants: Give tenants guidelines on how to operate thermostats and how to report heating issues. Instruct them on how to keep their units warm, especially if they plan to be away for an extended period.
  • Be Ready for Emergency Repairs: Heating systems can fail when you least expect it. Have emergency repair services lined up to address urgent heating issues swiftly.

5. Communication is Key: Stay in Touch with Tenants

Clear communication with your tenants is crucial during the winter months, especially when dealing with storm-related issues like snow removal or heating failures.

Key Tips:

  • Inform Tenants of Winter Procedures: Make sure tenants are aware of the snow removal schedule, emergency contacts, and any property-wide initiatives to ensure safety. Set clear expectations about how snow and ice will be managed.
  • Provide Emergency Contact Information: Ensure tenants know who to contact for emergencies—whether it’s for plumbing issues, heating system failures, or slip hazards. Prompt communication can prevent confusion and ensure timely resolutions.
  • Share Winter Weather Updates: Keep tenants informed about severe weather forecasts, including any snowstorms or cold fronts, so they can take precautions. Offering helpful tips, such as keeping pipes insulated or letting faucets drip, can go a long way in preventing problems.

6. Roof and Gutter Maintenance: Preventing Water Damage

Clean Gutters

Snow, ice, and rain can cause major issues for roofing and gutter systems, potentially leading to water damage if not properly maintained. Addressing these areas before and during winter storms is key to avoiding costly repairs.

Key Tips:

  • Inspect and Clean Gutters Regularly: Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams and water backup, causing damage to the roof and interior of the building. Clean gutters before the snow season begins and make sure they are free from debris throughout the winter.
  • Address Roof Insulation: Proper insulation in the attic or upper floors helps prevent uneven snow melting, which can cause ice dams on the roof. Make sure insulation is adequate, particularly in high-risk areas like overhangs.
  • Check Roof Integrity: Schedule a pre-winter inspection to check for loose shingles, cracks, or other signs of damage that could worsen during snow and ice buildup.
  • Prepare for Ice Dams: If you live in an area prone to heavy snow, consider installing heat cables along the roofline to prevent ice dam formation. These cables help keep gutters and downspouts clear.

Be Prepared, Stay Safe, and Keep Your Property in Shape

Winter storms are an inevitable part of the season, but with the right preparation, property managers can mitigate potential risks and keep their properties running smoothly. From snow removal to plumbing inspections and roof maintenance, taking proactive steps is key to avoiding costly damage and ensuring tenant safety.

At Wynnow, we specialize in maintenance, repair, and renovation services that help property managers stay ahead of winter weather challenges. Contact us today to discuss how we can support you with snow removal, emergency repairs, and more. Please also check us out on FacebookInstagram, and X for advice and more!


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