How to protect your small business from hailstorm damage

Powerful thunderstorms often bring high winds, heavy rain, and large balls of ice, known as hail. Hailstorms are more common during the summer since weather conditions from May to August are likely to cause unstable air patterns. Due to the size and speed of hail, these ice chunks can cause serious damage to buildings and vehicles and even lead to injury if someone is caught in a storm. Learn how to protect your small business and reduce the risk of damage with these tips on preparing for a hailstorm.

1. Create an emergency plan. A solid emergency and inclement weather plan can make all the difference during a hailstorm. Make sure all your employees know what to do in the event of severe weather and create open lines of communication to let them know if your business will close for the day due to a hailstorm.
2. Keep an eye on the weather. As a business owner, it’s your responsibility to know if severe weather is expected to affect your operations, staff, and customers. Use a reliable weather monitoring system, like the Environment Canada weather forecast, to know when to secure belongings and inform staff of any possible changes to business hours.
3. Secure any outdoor equipment. Don’t forget about the equipment and inventory you might have outside. Air conditioning units, signage, and outdoor decor are especially vulnerable and could be dangerous if they blow around in a hailstorm. Use protective covers, secure loose fixtures, or move these items indoors, if possible, if there’s a storm in the forecast.
4. Regularly inspect your roof. Your roof is your first line of defense against hail. Make sure it's up to the task. If your roof is old, worn down, or damaged, it might be time for an upgrade. Call a professional in the spring and fall to regularly inspect your roof and let you know if any repairs are needed.
5. Protect your windows. Hailstones can shatter windows, causing damage not only to the glass but also to your business’s interior. Install storm shutters, impact-resistant windows, or clear protective film to provide an extra level of protection.

   Don’t leave your business vulnerable to hailstone damage. Stay one step ahead of a severe hailstorm by regularly inspecting your roof, reinforcing windows, and creating an emergency plan for your staff.

6. Review your business insurance policy. Don’t wait until after a storm passes to see if you’re protected. Contact your licensed insurance broker to review your policy and see if you have the right coverage to protect your building, inventory, and any possible business interruptions if a hailstorm causes damage.

Hailstorms can be a real threat to your small business, but with these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and keep your staff safe. Be prepared for more severe weather events and learn how to protect your small business against flood damage.

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