How to Prepare Your Commercial Property for Summer Storms

Summer storms in the Midwest can arrive fast and leave a surprising amount of damage behind. From torrential rain to high winds and hail, these storms put commercial properties at risk—especially older buildings or those with deferred maintenance.

For business owners and property managers, a little preparation goes a long way toward protecting your investment and keeping your business operational after the weather clears. Here are some key steps to prepare your property for storm season:

Inspect Roofing & Gutters
Your first line of defense against water damage is a well-maintained roof and clear, working gutters. Make sure downspouts are directing water well away from the building. Check for signs of roof wear such as loose shingles, flashing damage, or debris buildup. Even a small roof issue can turn into major water intrusion after a heavy storm.

Secure Outdoor Equipment & Furniture
Loose items like outdoor seating, signage, or equipment can quickly become projectiles during a high wind event. Before the first summer storm rolls in, secure anything that could be picked up by strong gusts.

Trim Trees & Remove Dead Limbs
Trees can enhance your property’s curb appeal, but untrimmed branches or dead limbs pose a serious risk during storms. Have a professional check the health of your property’s trees and prune them back where needed to prevent falling limbs and property damage.

Test Sump Pumps & Backup Power
For properties with basements or lower-level equipment rooms, test your sump pump to ensure it’s working properly. If your building has a generator, schedule a maintenance check so you aren’t caught off guard in the event of a power outage.

Review Emergency Contacts & Plans
Storm preparation isn’t just physical—it’s operational too. Ensure your team knows who to call and what steps to take after a storm event. Having a professional restoration partner like NCRI on standby can help you recover quickly and minimize downtime.

Final Thoughts
A bit of preparation now can prevent thousands of dollars in storm-related damage and disruption later. If you’d like a professional assessment of your property’s storm readiness—or need emergency response services after severe weather—contact NCRI today.

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