Part 1: Winter Weather, Real Risks: How Snow and Ice Impact Business Insurance Claims

When the first snowfall hits, it’s more than just a seasonal shift—it’s a liability alert for business owners. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures introduce a wave of risks that can quickly snowball into costly claims if you’re not prepared.

From parking lot hazards to burst pipes, winter weather puts pressure on every corner of your operations. Whether you’re running a construction site, managing tenants, or operating a busy retail space, understanding how these risks show up—and how your insurance responds—is essential for staying protected.

1. Slip-and-Fall Injuries: The Classic Claim

Slick sidewalks and icy stairs are the #1 driver of liability claims in winter. If someone falls on your property, you could be held legally responsible for medical costs, lost wages, or even litigation.

This risk is especially high in industries with frequent foot traffic—think restaurants, apartment buildings, and storefronts. Even if you hire a snow removal contractor, you’re still liable unless you’ve verified their insurance and documented your contract.

🧊 Pro Tip: Keep logs of when snow and ice were cleared or salted. This documentation could be key in defending against a liability claim.

2. Roof Collapses and Property Damage

Heavy, wet snow is more than a nuisance—it’s a structural risk. Flat roofs, carports, and older buildings are vulnerable to collapse under snow load. If that happens, property insurance may cover the repair, but only if you’ve done your part in maintenance and inspections.

📦 Construction firms using temporary structures or storage sheds? Those are particularly vulnerable and often require additional endorsements to be covered properly.

3. Auto Accidents from Winter Driving Conditions

Fleet vehicles and delivery vans are more exposed in winter. Icy roads, poor visibility, and unpredictable drivers lead to a spike in auto claims. Without the right commercial auto coverage—or proper safety protocols—one accident can throw off your operations.

🚚 Make sure your team is trained on winter driving and that your coverage includes non-owned vehicles, if employees occasionally use personal cars for business errands.

4. Frozen Pipes and Water Damage

When temps drop, so does the pressure in your plumbing system—literally. Frozen pipes that burst can lead to extensive water damage, especially in restaurants and older office buildings.

📉 These incidents often fall into a gray area: they’re covered only if the building was properly heated and maintained. That’s why proactive risk management is just as important as having the right insurance.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Before the snow piles up:

• Review your general liability and property policies.

• Make sure your snow removal agreements are updated and insured.

• Identify vulnerable areas in your physical space—especially entrances, gutters, and plumbing lines.

• Educate your staff or tenants on reporting and responding to weather-related hazards.

At BudRisk, we help you see around the curve—weather-related or otherwise. Let’s talk before the storm hits.

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