Winter on Long Island is unpredictable and costly. Between freezing temperatures, ice storms, snow accumulation, and infrastructure strain, the season brings a wave of risks that can disrupt operations, damage property, and increase liability exposure for business owners.
While homeowners often prepare for winter, many businesses forget that their risk doubles: they must protect both property and people.
Here’s what business owners should put in place before winter hits full force.
Review Your Commercial Property Coverage Before Storm Season
Winter-related claims are among the costliest for business owners.
Before January, review your policy for:
- Frozen pipe coverage
- Roof collapse due to snow load
- Flooding from snowmelt
- Windstorm damage
- Utility failures
Many business owners mistakenly assume their policy covers all winter events but flooding, for example, is not included in most commercial property policies.
This is also a good time to check your Business Interruption Insurance, which helps replace lost income if a storm shuts down your operations.
Inspect Your Building for Winter Hazards
Property maintenance is one of the biggest determinants of whether a claim is paid or denied.
Before the deep freeze:
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Inspect and service HVAC systems
- Ensure gutters and drainage are clear
- Check your roof for weak spots
- Seal any cracks or gaps
- Test generators and backup systems
Documentation matters. If you need to file a claim later, your insurer will want proof that you took preventive steps.
Update Snow & Ice Removal Contracts
Slip-and-fall claims skyrocket during winter.
Before the first storm:
- Confirm your contractor’s liability coverage
- Request an updated COI
- Clarify response times
- Review how salting and plowing logs are documented
If someone falls on your property and your contractor was late or negligent, you may still get sued.
A good contract prevents that.
Reevaluate Your Workers’ Compensation Exposure
Winter conditions increase risk for both indoor and outdoor teams.
Common winter workplace injuries:
- Slips on ice
- Strains from shoveling
- Injuries from cold exposure
- Accidents during snow removal
- Vehicle accidents in company cars or trucks
Now is the time to:
- Re-train teams on winter safety
- Provide required PPE for outdoor employees
- Ensure indoor temperature compliance
- Update your vehicle safety and driving policies
Workers’ comp claims often spike between December and March. Preparation reduces your exposure.
Review Your Cyber Insurance Before Holiday Hack Season
Winter isn’t just storms, it’s also peak cybersecurity season.
Holiday phishing, staffing shortages, and remote work create vulnerabilities.
Check that your cyber policy covers:
- Ransomware
- Wire fraud
- Data breaches
- Employee error
- Social engineering
- Business interruption from cyber events
Winter storms can cause power outages, which increase the likelihood of cybersecurity events when systems restart.
- Prepare for Employee Absences and Operational Disruptions
Winter brings:
- School closures
- Sickness
- Transportation issues
- Weather-related shutdowns
Review your:
- Inclement weather policy
- Remote work procedures
- Communication protocols
- PTO/absence rules
- Backup staffing plans
Make sure employees know what to do when weather disrupts operations.
Final Thought
Winter weather doesn’t have to derail your business but preparation must happen before the storms, not after.
If you’re unsure whether your insurance, safety policies, or PEO/benefits structure can handle winter disruptions, Wizdom One can help you evaluate your risks and strengthen your protection for the season ahead.