Protecting your business during extreme weather

Winter or summer, it seems like we can’t go a week without news (and warnings) of another storm. Severe weather brings the risks of flood, wind damage and more, which can cost your business dearly if stock, property or people are harmed.

Taking appropriate steps and having the right insurance, like business interruption cover, can help safeguard against some of these risks, or even negate them entirely. And the good news is that most of these measures can be done easily.

For the purpose of this article, we’ll be focusing on storm damage which means extreme wind and rain.

Here’s how to safeguard your business during extreme weather.

What to do before a weather warning is issued

Prevention is better than cure, so a good plan can help prepare you and your business ahead of the storm. Consider taking these steps (not necessarily in this order) when you know a storm is coming:

Charge your phone

Like a Scout or Guide, always be prepared. One such step is making sure your phone is fully charged and having battery packs and chargers in case you need them. The same can be said of laptops or tablets if you use them.

Carry out some (very) quick maintenance

If it’s safe and you have time, secure or remove any loose roof tiles or old fence panels you’ve been meaning to fix in a bid to prevent them being caught by extreme gusts of wind and causing major damage.

Since time is of the essence, you probably won’t have time to clear any guttering of moss and leaves, which can weigh them down or make for wind catchers, so make sure you’re doing this throughout the year as part of your ongoing property maintenance.

Store your outdoor property

Any outdoor business equipment or stock should be packed away or properly secured. This means bins, ladders, outdoor furniture and important tools should come inside or anchored and fastened properly.

Not only will this go some way in protecting you and your property from the elements, but you’ll also help protect yourself against third-party liability if, say, the wind took your empty wheelie bin and damaged a neighbouring property or someone walking down the street.

Batton down the hatches!

If you’re in a flood-risk area, consider how to secure your business property. Close and fasten internal and external doors, including the loft hatch and windows, sealing them with sandbags if you can. Also, consider securing your storm shutters if you have them, unless you’re inside.

If major damage is likely, like the imminent risk of flooding, turn off your gas, electricity and water.

Move your vehicles somewhere safe

Ensure that vehicles are stored in garages, or at the very least moved away from buildings, old fences or suspiciously unstable trees.

You might also want to consider bringing any stock or equipment you store in your vehicle inside, should something happen to it.

Seek higher ground

When it comes to floods, move your stock or equipment upstairs. At the very least, get them as high off the floor as possible.

You really shouldn't plan to be in your place of business during a bad storm. Making the building safe and then heading home or to a safe place is the best port of call.

If you do become trapped by floodwater at work (or home), go to the highest level of the building you are in, avoiding the attic in case of rising water. Going onto the roof should be a last resort. At this point, you should call 999 for help.

What can you do during the severe weather?

Your priority during the storm should be staying safe. The welfare of you, your staff and customers is paramount. Any attempts to save property should be left until the bad weather has passed and it is safe to do so.

Leaving the property and venturing outside during the storm should be avoided unless absolutely essential and there is a danger to life.

What should you do after a storm?

Only return to your business after a storm when it is safe to do so. If you’ve suffered damage to your property or possessions here’s what you should do next:

1. Stay safe — don’t do anything that puts you or your employees at risk.
2. Be especially careful around any exposed electrical or telephone cables.
3. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible; they can advise your next steps and help arrange repairs.
4. Don't throw away damaged items without discussing it with your insurer, in case they can be repaired.
5. You can arrange temporary emergency repairs to stop any damage getting worse. Again, tell your insurer and keep receipts, as this will form part of your claim and you could be reimbursed.

Again, stay safe.

Equipment, property and stock are all replaceable, and insurance can help recoup any losses in the wake of a storm. Ultimately, the most precious asset your business has is you and your employees.

And while you can insure people in your business against accidents and sickness, you should always take the necessary steps to ensure your safety during a storm because no amount of compensation can replace a human.

For more information about safeguarding your business during a storm, get in touch.