How do businesses need to prepare for changing weather conditions?

Changing weather conditions during the winter months can cause a number of issues for businesses if they do not plan ahead.

The reason for this is because risk and insurance profiles change, meaning SMEs need to understand the importance of adapting to the conditions they might face.

Some risks are understandably more prevalent than others and many insurance claims relating to them go up as a result – claims as a result of slips or falls for example.

However, claims can be rejected if a small business has not put adequate plans into place – potentially causing financial loss as a result.

Instead, with a little prior planning a company can vastly reduce the risks faced, lowering the likelihood of making an expensive mistake.

Reducing risks and managing finances

Building preparations are essential and should not be too costly to carry out – checking roofing and piping can potentially save thousands.

The reason for this is because an insurer will often cover an event such as a storm but may reject anything that is deemed as wear and tear.

From a financial view this could cause a number of issues for firms, especially among those operating on tight budgets and who lack the money to resolve any problems.

This can place pressure on the cash flow of a business and could even leave a firm facing insolvency in the most serious circumstances.

In such situations, a business is encouraged to seek guidance from UK insolvency practitioners to discover what solutions may be available.

What do companies need to consider?

Pipes can easily freeze during the winter and damage can be expensive to fix – ensuring that a property remains at a certain temperature should help address the issue.

This should enable a firm to say they have taken all available measures to prevent damage should they need to make a claim related to piping.

Efforts need to be made to keep outside spaces clear of ice and snow too, as a company can be held liable if an accident occurs on their site.

Staff should also be encouraged to look after any company vehicles to ensure they are in good condition for use on the road – the key with it all is to plan ahead.

By Phil Smith

If you would like to have a free no obligation chat with one of our advisers please call us on 0207 186 1144.

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