After the Snow: A Post Storm Inspection Checklist for PNW Properties
Property managers know that the period immediately following weather events is critical. This is when liability issues regarding slip and fall accidents often arise. It is also when you can identify damage caused by heavy snow loads or machinery. A thorough inspection ensures your site remains safe for tenants and customers.
Table of Contents
Why a Post Storm Inspection is Critical
The primary goal of an inspection is safety. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) emphasizes that keeping walking surfaces clear is vital for preventing workplace injuries. You can review general surface safety standards on the OSHA website.
Snow and ice management does not stop after the plows leave. Residual moisture often turns into black ice overnight. A detailed inspection identifies these hazard zones before they become liability claims.
Beyond safety, an inspection helps you catch property damage early. Heavy snow can stress structures, and plows operating in low visibility might graze a curb. This proactive approach saves money and maintains your professional image.
Checking Pavement and Hardscapes
Your inspection must begin with the parking lot and sidewalks. These are high-traffic areas where safety is paramount. Look for areas where melting snow has pooled and refrozen, especially near clogged drains or uneven pavement.
During your post storm inspection, check for:
- Cracks in asphalt that expanded due to freezing water.
- Heaved concrete panels that create trip hazards.
- Damage to curbs or speed bumps from plow blades.
- Residual slush that could freeze overnight.
If you find significant ice buildup during your inspection, you may need additional services. Our team specializes in Seattle snow and ice control to manage these situations. We use industry best practices to clear surfaces without damaging your property.
Documentation is key. Take photos of clear pavement and any areas of concern during every inspection. This creates a record of your diligence.
Inspecting Drainage Systems
Water management is vital for winter safety. When snow melts, it needs a clear path off your property. If catch basins are blocked, water stays on the surface and becomes ice.
Walk the perimeter of your parking lot. Remove any debris or piled snow blocking the flow. Ensure downspouts direct water away from walkways. If a downspout is frozen, it can dump water directly onto a sidewalk. Identifying this during an inspection allows you to divert the flow temporarily.
If you notice standing water that will not drain, you may have a blockage. Our landscaping and contracting services include site work to address drainage issues before the next freeze.
Assessing Landscape and Vegetation
Heavy, wet snow puts immense pressure on trees and shrubs. An inspection of your landscaping prevents falling branches from injuring people or damaging cars.
Look for broken limbs hanging over walkways or parking stalls. Your inspection should also note any shrubs crushed by snow piles. Note any yellowing plants, which might indicate salt sensitivity. This data helps refine your future management plan.
If your irrigation system was not winterized, the freeze may have cracked pipes. Look for signs of leaking water or soft spots in the ground during your inspection.
Examining the Building Envelope and Lighting
Your building faces the same stresses as your parking lot. A comprehensive inspection includes a scan of the building exterior.
Check gutters for ice dams. These form when heat escapes the roof, melts snow, and refreezes at the edge. Ice dams can cause interior leaks. Spotting them during a post storm inspection can prevent costly water damage.
Winter days are short, so visibility is your ally. Your post storm inspection must confirm that all exterior lighting is functional. Plows can knock over bollards and winds can misalign fixtures. Ensure parking lot lights and exit signs are visible. A well-lit property is a safer property.
If you discover structural issues during your post storm inspection, we can help. As a holder of general contractor license riedmel904p9, Riedmann Enterprises handles general repairs to restore your property.
The Professional Advantage
Conducting a post storm inspection takes expertise. Many property managers rely on professional partners to handle the details.
Riedmann Enterprises is a member of the Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA) and employs snow professionals. We follow rigorous standards for documentation. According to SIMA, proper documentation is essential for risk management. View their resources at the SIMA website.
We have served the Puget Sound region for over ten years. We know the local codes and weather patterns. Trusting a SIMA member for your post storm inspection support adds a layer of professionalism to your operations. Learn more about our background on our about page.
Your Inspection Checklist
Use this simple checklist for every post storm inspection.
- Pavement: Walk sidewalks and driveways to spot refreeze.
- Drainage: Clear debris from catch basins.
- Lighting: Test exterior lights and check for damage.
- Landscaping: Identify broken branches.
- Building: Check for ice dams and gutter damage.
Completing this post storm inspection after every event reduces risk. For more insights on property maintenance, read our article on commercial property inspection and winter safety.
Partner with Riedmann Enterprises
The best time to plan for the next storm is now. Use the findings from your post storm inspection to update your response plan. If your inspection revealed significant wear, you may need to allocate funds for repairs. Read more about budgeting in our post on tenant improvement ideas and tips.
Winter in Seattle is unpredictable. Your response should not be. A consistent post storm inspection routine is the mark of a responsible operator.
Riedmann Enterprises is here to support you. We are an Accredited Snow Contractor dedicated to safety. Contact us today to discuss your winter needs and how we can assist with your post storm inspection protocols.