Be prepared… winter is coming

Protect Your Building This Winter: Tips from Unity Insurance

A midwinter evening often promises the warmth and camaraderie of your charity fun, until a sudden setback like storm damage or icy access routes puts a damper on the activities. 

To keep your building safe, functional, and welcoming all winter long, a bit of proactive maintenance can go a long way. Here are some practical tips to safeguard your property and equipment, and to keep unfortunate accidents at bay:

Lighten Up

As the days grow shorter, outside lighting needs to be considered for night-time gatherings. Adequate lighting isn’t just a nice to have; it’s essential for safety.

• Brighten Your Outdoors: Ensure pathways and entrances are well-lit. Turn on exterior lights when you arrive, or better still, set them on a timer to switch on automatically. Good lighting can significantly reduce the risk of slips and trips and make the premises feel welcoming.

Be Ruthless, Not Roofless

Winter storms can take a toll on your roof, dislodging tiles and slates or even creating gaps for water to seep in.

• Act Quickly on Roof Damage: Don’t delay repairs if you notice loose or missing tiles. Hiring a roofer to repair or replace them promptly will save you from dealing with costly water damage or rotting timbers later. Regular roof inspections can be a lifesaver in stormy seasons.   Remember to record your inspections for maintenance, even if everything is perfect. Take photos of perfection. Keep receipts of repairs.
• Document Your Inspections: Even if everything is in perfect condition, take photos during your regular checks and keep receipts for any work done. These records are invaluable if you ever need to make a claim.

If You Want to Build a Snowman…

Snowfall may bring a sense of magic, but don’t let it blind you to the hazards beneath. Icy conditions can catch anyone off guard, so it’s worth reminding everyone (young and old) to tread carefully.

• Create Clear Routes: Focus on keeping one main path clear of snow and ice, and sprinkle plenty of grit to reduce the risk of slips. 
• Check for Cracks and Potholes: Once the snow has melted, take a look at your paths and car park. Freezing and thawing can create cracks and potholes.      Regular inspections and timely repairs can prevent accidents and keep your property safe.

Insurance Advice on Ice

Maintenance is important, but so is making sure your insurance policy has you covered for winter-related issues.

• Protect Your Pipes: Insulate water pipes to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
• Keep Temperatures Steady: If your building will be unoccupied for more than seven days, switch off the water at the mains and set your thermostat to at least 13°C (55°F). 
• Review Your Cover: Don’t wait for a claim to realise you’re under-insured. Make sure your policy suits your building’s needs, so you’re fully protected if the worst happens.
• Document Your Efforts: Keep a record of your winter preparations. In the event of a claim, having proof of your maintenance efforts can make all the difference especially if you are accused of negligence.

Stay Covered with Unity

By following these simple steps, you can keep your building safe and welcoming all winter long, while avoiding unnecessary claims or repairs. If you have questions about your insurance policy or need advice, Unity’s friendly team are here to help. 

Call us on 0333 0917019 to discuss your insurance needs.

Let’s work together to make this winter safe, secure, and claim-free for everyone.…