The frequency of hail storms has been on the rise, and with every storm comes damage – to vehicles and buildings. You should never underestimate a hail storm's destructiveness, even if your area is not prone to hail. The good news is that you can take steps to help reduce the risk of damage from hail storms.

Protecting your commercial building

• Cover windows with a protective film or shutters to resist shattering. When possible, close blinds or drapes during a storm in case glass does shatter.
• Install surge arrestors or suppressors to protect your electronics against lightning striking power lines.
• Remove weak branches and trees that could break and damage the building and windows.
• Store copies of relevant documents, such as human resource documents and insurance policies, offsite.

Protecting your Equipment

Some of your building's more vulnerable parts include satellite dishes, skylights, solar panels, electrical equipment, and air conditioning units. Many of this equipment have protective coverings or screens that can be installed over them to protect from potential damage. Where possible, you should also consider installing equipment in a more shielded area that offers some protection from storm damage, and always makes sure commercial equipment is safely secured so it's not lost or turned into a projectile.

Protecting your Roof

Your roof is also vulnerable to hail damage, but building your roof using hail-resistant materials can help prevent damage. Your roof should always be examined after storms, and worn materials or weak areas should be repaired as soon as possible to avoid leaks and further damage. You will also want to check flashing and gutters to clear out any debris and prevent blockage.

Protecting your Commercial Vehicles

If your company owns commercial vehicles and lives in an area prone to storms, you may want to consider storing them in a garage to protect against damage from hail and debris caused by high winds.

Protect your Business with adequate insurance coverage

A destructive storm can hit anywhere, but certain areas are more likely to experience hail storms and other natural disasters. Your insurance coverage may help you pay to repair or replace damaged property, including equipment, supplies, and structures. Please review with your broker to ensure you have this coverage. If you’re located in a high-risk zone, you may be able to purchase coverage as an endorsement to your standard small business insurance policy. For more information on your commercial property options, visit: https://www.otcinsurance.ca/commercial_property_insurance.