Whether you manage multiple commercial properties or own a home, proactive preparation is the difference between a controlled situation and a major disruption.
Here’s what you should be doing right now.
1. Prevent Frozen & Burst Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most expensive and disruptive winter issues we see.
Why it happens:
When temperatures drop below 32°F, water inside exposed or poorly insulated pipes freezes. As it expands, pressure builds — and pipes burst.
Prevention Tips:
✔ Keep interior temperatures at 55°F or higher (even in vacant units)
✔ Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation
✔ Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold
✔ Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls
✔ Shut off and drain exterior hose bibs
2. Protect Your Roof from Ice Dams
Heavy snow accumulation followed by melting and refreezing creates ice dams.
These trap water under shingles, leading to:
- Interior leaks
- Insulation damage
- Mold growth
- Structural rot
What To Do:
✔ Safely remove excess snow from roof edges (do NOT chip ice directly)
✔ Check attic insulation and ventilation
✔ Clear gutters and downspouts
✔ Monitor ceiling stains or wall discoloration
If you see water spots forming, act immediately.
3. Inspect Exterior Envelope Vulnerabilities
Storms exploit small weaknesses.
Check:
- Cracked masonry
- Loose flashing
- Damaged siding
- Failed caulking
- Gaps around windows and doors
These small failures allow moisture intrusion, which freezes, expands, and worsens structural damage.
For commercial buildings, deferred maintenance becomes exponentially more expensive after freeze-thaw cycles.
4. Protect Mechanical Rooms & Utility Areas
Mechanical rooms in commercial and multi-family properties are high-risk zones.
Ensure:
✔ Doors and vents are sealed
✔ No exposed piping is left uninsulated
✔ Sump pumps are operational
✔ Backup power systems are tested
One failed mechanical room can impact an entire building.
5. Emergency Preparedness Checklist
Before the storm:
- Confirm emergency contact lists
- Identify shut-off valve locations
- Have snow removal scheduled
- Stage salt and ice melt
- Communicate with tenants/residents
During extreme cold:
- Monitor properties daily
- Watch for pressure drops or unusual sounds in plumbing
- Address small issues immediately
After the storm:
Inspect roofs, ceilings, and basements
Look for pooling water
Document any damage early
Why Proactive Maintenance Matters
For property managers and asset managers, winter damage isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s:
- Insurance claims
- Budget overruns
- Tenant disruption
- Reputation risk
For homeowners, it’s:
- Emergency expenses
- Interior damage
- Loss of personal property
Preparation reduces risk. Fast response reduces damage.
If You Need Support
Landmark provides:
- Emergency repairs
- Roofing solutions
- Structural repairs
- Masonry & waterproofing
- Interior restoration
- Ongoing maintenance programs
Landmark provides emergency repairs, roofing solutions, structural repairs, masonry & waterproofing, interior restoration, and ongoing maintenance programs. Serving residential, commercial, and multi-family properties across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Southern NH. Contact Landmark for a pre- or post-storm property assessment.
Stay safe. Stay prepared.
