Windstorms can cause business owners to suffer a significant amount of property damage. Windstorm insurance is a specialty property and casualty insurance designed to provide for damages caused by high winds. It may cover loss from hurricane-force winds, tropical depressions, tropical storms, tornados, hail and other weather events accompanied by wind gusts that exceed 35 mph.

As hurricane and tornado season has arrived, organizations can mitigate losses by protecting roofs, windows, doors and equipment. Consider these tips for preventing windstorm damage.

Protect Your Roof From High Winds

• Hire a licensed professional to inspect your building to ensure the roof and other building connections comply with or exceed local wind-loading requirements.
• Inspect worn areas, flashing and gutters for needed replacement.
• Clean debris-blocking drainage.
• Verify all roof sheathing and connections are secure to prevent updrafts from lifting off the roof.
• Secure all HVAC units.

Reinforce Your Exterior Walls, Windows & Doors

• Guard openings with approved protection including shutters, plywood or impact-resistant film to defend against windborne debris.
• Consider installing singlewide garage doors that are less vulnerable to wind damage.
• Verify overhead doors are braced and able to withstand high winds.
• Investigate that siding and windows are securely attached.
• Use triple-hinged entry doors.
• Inspect and seal building cracks that could cause damage.
• Install impact-resistant glass to prevent shattering and barrier against wind damage.
• Add impact-resistant shutters on windows and glass doors for additional protection.

Secure All Your Equipment & Valuables

• Bolt bookcases, shelving, cabinets and other large furniture to wall studs.
• Anchor fuel tanks.
• Store high-value items in a safe or secured area away from windows or doors.
• Document all equipment and valuables, including photos and detailed item descriptions. Secure a digital backup and provide your insurance advisor with copies.

Examine & Fortify Your Outdoor Areas

• Anchor all equipment and inventory stored outside or move inside if a storm approaches.
• Routinely trim and maintain all large vegetation and trees close to your building.
• Ensure storage containers and outbuildings are anchored securely.
• Verify your outdoor signage is secure and designed to withstand high winds.
• Secure all dumpsters, fencing and light fixtures.
• Avoid using landscaping rocks or pebbles.

Weather-Protect Your Vehicles & Fleet

• Store vehicles inside a garage or storage building.
• Refrain from parking vehicles under trees, power lines or lampposts as they could cause damage.
• Consider sending vehicles home with employees if they cannot be stored inside your facility.
• Capture photos of your fleet vehicle’s interior and exterior to provide to your insurance company in the event your vehicle is damaged or destroyed during the storm.

Work With Your Broker 

• Implemented building improvements, including fortifying your structure with shutters, roof straps and newer windows, which can add additional property credits toward your premium.
• Take detailed pictures and videos of your structure(s), including aerial drone footage of your property and keep offsite in a secured location.
• Have a qualified loss control inspection of your property conducted by your insurance advisor.
• Contact your risk and insurance professional to review and manage your liabilities.

We're Here to Help

Hurricanes, tropical storms and tornados can cause major damage to your commercial property. Without proper coverage, your business may not be able to recover. Along with commercial property insurance, implementing risk management policies and procedures can help if the worst were to happen. If you have questions about your coverage or how to implement these exposures, connect with a member of our team.