By Chad Engle, Loss Prevention and Safety Manager
As winter approaches, NIRMA reminds all members of the importance of timely snow removal and proactive freezing weather precautions. Severe cold and snow events can lead to costly property damage, transportation disruptions, power outages, and liability claims. Taking preventive action now can help protect your property, staff, and the public—and strengthen your defense in the event of a tort claim.
Frozen Pipe Prevention & Building Protection
Frozen pipes are a leading cause of winter property damage, often occurring in unoccupied buildings or going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. To reduce the risk of water damage claims:
- Maintain heat in all buildings; keep thermostats above 60°F.
- If heat is not maintained, drain equipment and shut off the water supply.
- Monitor crawl spaces and basements for cold spots.
- Insulate exposed pipes and seal cracks around doors and windows.
- Turn off and drain outdoor faucets; disconnect hoses.
- Ensure access to water main shut-off valves.
- Use low-temperature alarms to monitor vulnerable areas.
- Install leak detection systems that can automatically shut off water.
- Regularly inspect buildings for leaks and cold zones.
- Ensure backup generators are fueled and operational.
- Inspect rooftop scupper drains to ensure they are clear and free of debris.
- Watch for ice dams and snow buildup on roofs and gutters.
Coverage Reminder: NIRMA’s coverage document includes a Failure to Maintain Heat exclusion for losses resulting from freezing when heat is not maintained or plumbing is not properly drained. Buildings with wet pipe sprinkler systems must maintain temperatures above 40°F per NFPA 25 standards to ensure fire protection and avoid water damage.
Timely Snow Removal & Slip and Fall Prevention
Snow and ice accumulation can create hazardous conditions and increase liability exposure. Timely and well-documented snow removal is essential:
- Begin snow removal at entrances most used by staff and the public.
- Maintain a snow removal log noting:
- Start and completion times
- Areas cleared
- Ice melt application (location, time, and quantity)
- Perform follow-up inspections and document them.
- Focus on problem areas that don’t receive sunlight or where melting snow refreezes.
- Push snow away from walkways to prevent runoff and refreezing.
- Keep curb cuts and wheelchair ramps clear—these are often buried by plows.
- Maintain parking lots as carefully as walkways; apply salt or gravel if full removal isn’t possible.
In Case of a Slip and Fall:
- Conduct a timely investigation.
- Speak with the injured person and any witnesses.
- Collect contact information.
- Take photographs to document the condition at the time of the fall.
- Promptly retrieve and preserve video footage if available—this is invaluable for claims defense.
Final Thoughts
Taking proactive measures before and during winter weather events helps prevent costly claims, repairs, and operational downtime. Proper documentation and timely response are key to defending our members in the event of a tort claim.
For questions or assistance with documentation or claims, please contact me at chad@nirma.info or 1.800.642.6671.
