Depending on where you live in the United States, hail storms may be a frightening threat – or something that rarely crosses your mind. According to the Severe Storms Database, last year saw 4,436 major hail storms in the United States – an increase of over 17% from 2021. Hail storms are known for causing significant damage, which wreaks financial havoc on individuals and business owners.
Known as “Hail Alley,” the region from Wyoming to Texas receives more hailstorms compared to the rest of the country. In 2020, Texas experienced 601 hail events, followed by South Dakota (377), Kansas and Oklahoma (each 341), then Nebraska (313). However, Colorado ranks No. 1 for hail losses per capita and expected annual damages to buildings and population totaling $151.5 million. Across the U.S., claims resulted in $14.2 billion in losses in 2020.
While you can’t predict the unexpected, business owners can better prepare themselves with preventive measures against these dangerous storms. At Society Insurance, we have compiled best practices for bars, restaurants, and other types of food and beverage establishments to help protect their businesses against hail storms and other natural seasonal disasters to avoid costly storm damage insurance claims.
Inspect your Roof Every Year or Two to Prevent Indoor Storm Damage
Not only does a regular roof inspection extend the life of your roof, saving you money long-term, it allows you to troubleshoot and remedy any issues such as split shingles, loose or broken roofing material, rusty metal, and sagging. It is much easier to fix a small roof problem than a collapsed roof or burgeoning leak that can cause even more damage inside.
Address Drainage Problems Prior to Storm Season
Check your gutters and building drainage before the storm season begins. If your gutters are due for a cleaning, contact a local gutter company to complete the job. Additionally, if your roof has been damaged, so have your gutters most likely. Neglected gutters spell disaster as they accumulate debris and standing water. Standing water can easily overflow into your foundation, potentially flooding the basement and shutting down your establishment.
Secure Outdoor Items to Prevent Wind Damage
Umbrellas, picnic tables, and patio furniture can become projectiles in high wind scenarios. “Batten down the hatches” as they say – you don’t want your patio umbrella to go spiraling through the air in the midst of a summer storm. Consider securing patio furniture with steel security cables if you cannot safely store furniture.
Trim your Trees to Prevent Storm Damage
While dead trees and dead branches are a liability all of the time, dead branches are more likely to fall during heavy storms and gusting winds. This can be hazardous to you, your employees, patrons, and the building. From tree limbs falling on the roof to dead branches getting tangled in power lines, a well-maintained property will, again, help you avoid costly storm damage insurance claims.
With the worst of this year’s hail season still ahead of us, there’s never been a better time to prepare for a possible hail storm, especially if you call “Hail Alley” home. Business owners can mitigate damage to their building, payroll, and bottom line if they invest a little bit of time into preventive measures.
This article is not a template. It is meant to be a guide as to the questions and issues that should be addressed when drafting a policy. The links provided are a convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute legal advice or an endorsement or approval by Society Insurance of any of the statements, or opinions, or content of the organization. Society Insurance bears no responsibility for the accuracy or content of linked or cited material. This article is not intended to give legal opinions or provide any kind of legal counsel. For a legal opinion, please seek legal counsel from a qualified attorney.
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