As the crisp air rolls in and the leaves begin to fall, it’s easy to get caught up in the beauty of the season. But for businesses, autumn also brings a unique set of weather-related risks—wind, rain, early snow, and flooding—that can disrupt operations and lead to costly claims.
Here’s how to prepare your business and ensure your insurance coverage is ready for whatever fall throws your way.
Wind Damage: Reinforce and Review
Fall storms often bring strong winds that can damage:
- Roofs and windows
- Outdoor signage
- Equipment stored outside
What to do:
- Review your commercial property insurance policy to confirm wind damage is covered.
- Secure outdoor assets and inspect roofing for vulnerabilities.
- Understand if your policy includes windstorm deductibles or exclusions.
Rain & Water Intrusion: Stay Dry, Stay Covered
Heavy rains can lead to water damage, especially in buildings with aging infrastructure or poor drainage.
What to do:
- Check your policy for coverage related to water damage.
- Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent overflow.
- Seal windows and doors to reduce seepage risk.
- Review your business interruption coverage to protect against downtime.
Water damage claims can be tricky—documentation and preventative maintenance are key.
Early Snowfall: Prepare for the Unexpected
In the Northeast, snow can arrive earlier than expected, bringing risks like:
- Slip-and-fall incidents on icy walkways
- Roof strain from snow accumulation
- Vehicle accidents for business fleets
What to do:
- Ensure your general liability and commercial auto policies are current.
- Schedule snow removal services in advance.
- Communicate safety protocols with staff.
Fall Weather Risk Checklist
Before the season is in full swing, take these steps:
- Review and update insurance policies
- Conduct seasonal maintenance and inspections
- Communicate emergency plans with staff
- Document assets and property conditions
- Consult your insurance agent for tailored coverage
Fall is a season of change—and preparation. By taking proactive steps now, your business can stay protected, minimize disruptions, and focus on growth through the colder months.
There for You: Acadia Insurance
At Acadia, we’re all about helping businesses throughout the Northeast thrive. Our mission is to provide superior service and products as close to you as possible, providing you with the coverage you need to proceed with confidence.
We understand what you want most from your insurance is security and peace of mind. That means knowing you are working with an insurance provider who will support you every step of the way to help you protect your business.
With Acadia, not only can you get coverage tailored to your needs, but you will also receive support from dedicated claims professionals to guide you through the claim process in the event of a loss. That way, you know exactly what to expect. Knowing your claims professional by name and a handshake – that’s “Closer Coverage”. Get to know more about how we work and find an agent near you by going to the Find an Agent section on our public website (www.acadiainsurance.com).
Acadia is pleased to share this material for the benefit of its customers. Please note, however, that nothing herein should be construed as either legal advice or the provision of professional consulting services. This material is for informational purposes only, and while reasonable care has been utilized in compiling this information, no warranty or representation is made as to accuracy or completeness. Recipients of this material must utilize their own judgment in implementing sound risk management practices and procedures.
