Protect Your Small Business From Property Damage
You’ve built your business from the ground up and are proud of where you’ve taken it. After making tough decisions and taking risks, you want to know your business is protected. Sometimes, focusing on daily operations can cause you to overlook the damages your business can endure. That’s why we’ve highlighted some areas for you to check and prevent possible setbacks from happening.
Interior
Pipes and Leaks
Water damage is one of the most common types of property damage for businesses. Damage can come from bursting pipes and water blockage. Check the walls and ceilings for wet spots or signs of water damage.
Pipes can burst during freezing weather. Insulate all exposed pipes with pipe wrap to keep them from freezing or breaking.
Leaks happen when you experience problems with things like roof damage or clogged gutters. Over time a leak that goes unnoticed can cause rotting and molding throughout the building's walls and ceiling. Depending on the location, it could also damage your work equipment.
Clean out your gutters and inspect the roof of your building frequently to prevent possible leaks. Know where to find your shutoff valve in case of a pipe burst. Cutting off the water supply will help stop the leak — and maybe save you thousands of dollars worth of water damage.
Cords, Surge Protectors and Power Strips
Keep all cords out of the way and use protectors like spiral wrap, zip-ties, heat shrink tubing and electrical tape to keep them tidy and together. Lay them near a wall or under furniture where they won’t be easy to trip on.
Two tools commonly used for convenience and safety are surge protectors and power strips. Both have different purposes: power strips give you extra outlet space for multiple electronics, while surge protectors protect against voltage spikes that can damage your devices. Your typical wall outlets may not be able to withstand high-powered equipment. A power strip may be your best option when plugging in multiple electronics in one area. However, a surge protector is ideal for appliances that require higher voltage. Make sure to use the correct cord for your daily business duties to help prevent electrical damage to your devices.
Exterior
Maintain or Remove Trees
Although the weather is something we cannot control, we can take precautions to lessen the possibility of exterior damage.
Tree limbs are bound to break and fall during bad weather conditions. They could fall on your roof or break windows. Maintain them by trimming and cutting them down or hiring a professional to remove them.
Security
If there’s an opportunity, someone will take it — even for burglars, arsonists and vandals. Take preventative measures to lessen the risk of destruction or burglary like:
Lighting
Ensure the premises are well-lit (inside and outside) and all light fixtures work. Replace any light bulbs when needed.
Locked Doors
Secure your building with the proper doors and locks. Use deadbolt locks and install metal or solid-core wood doors.
Windows
If you don’t have them, consider getting shatter-resistant window glass. Keep your windows secure by adding window locks. Keep obvious valuables, like a safe, out of sight. For extra security, window security films that are tinted or frosted can also keep areas inaccessible for privacy.
Security Systems
Install security cameras and an alarm system inside and outside your property. Face cameras toward all entrances and areas where valuable items are. Apply sensors to all windows and doors.
Accidents happen by surprise, but that’s why insurance is such a blessing. You can take all the necessary precautions to avoid disasters, but they are bound to happen. Alfa® offers business insurance that covers property, liability and other necessities to keep your business going. Contact your local Alfa agent to build a policy that fits your business needs.