IN THIS ISSUE:

Spring Maintenance Tasks

The active 2020-2021 winter storm season has meant that many parts of the country have dealt with the hazards that result from extreme winter weather. As we move into spring, warmer temperatures will bring additional challenges. It's important to make a plan for spring inspections and maintenance at your self-storage facility even if the snow is still falling.

Most successful self-storage operators are aware of the importance of facility maintenance to improve curb appeal and attract prospective customers. But operators may not understand the full scope of the insurance benefits that preventive maintenance may afford a self-storage operation. The hard work you put in performing maintenance tasks can help reduce the risk of costly claims and lawsuits, which may have a positive effect on your insurance premiums and save you money in the long run. Here are some maintenance tasks to consider.

Fences and Gates: Inspect perimeter fencing to identify damage such as chain link that has been cut or damage caused by vehicle impact and make prompt repairs. Contact a licensed professional to inspect electronic gates and keypads and make repairs as appropriate.

Roofing: Melting snow and ice can quickly lead to roof leaks. Contact a licensed professional to inspect and repair roofing throughout the property. Also be sure to inspect your roof for ice dams, clogged drains and downspouts, and broken seals, all of which can contribute to costly leaks and damage to your tenants' stored property.

Pavement and Walkways: Maintaining paved areas and walkways is a critical component of a facility's risk management plan and helps to reduce the risk of slip-and-fall accidents and property damage. As part of your daily premises inspections, keep an eye out for potholes and cracks in aisles, sidewalks, parking areas, steps, and other walkways, and make repairs in a timely manner.

Lighting and Security Cameras: Make it a daily practice to inspect the lighting throughout the facility to ensure that the property is appropriately illuminated for the safety of your tenants and managers, and make prompt repairs when needed. In addition, contact a licensed professional to inspect your security cameras, monitors, and recording devices to ensure they are in good working order.

Landscaping: Regular removal of brush and grass that has grown up around the facility contributes to curb appeal, but there are more important reasons to stay on top of landscaping tasks. A property that appears messy and poorly maintained may become a target for criminal activity. In addition, overgrown trees, shrubs, and ground cover provide fuel for fires. Whether a fire originates on the property or begins as a wildfire, diligent maintenance of landscaping can help to prevent the spread of flames and minimize the resulting damage.

In addition to reducing the potential for slip-and-fall injuries, property damage, fire, water damage, and crime, preventive maintenance may enable an insurance underwriter to offer better terms at your next policy renewal in the form of reduced premiums, higher limits, or lower deductibles. Your insurance agent is an excellent source of information about coverage for your self-storage business and can assist in your risk management planning for 2021 and beyond.