Preparing a Commercial Property for Michigan's First Snowstorm

Preparing a commercial property for Michigan’s first snowstorm starts before the forecast calls for snow. Property managers should inspect exterior areas, confirm their snow and ice management plan, protect vulnerable building systems, and make sure contractors can access the site. Handling these tasks early helps keep the property safer, more accessible, and ready for normal business operations.

1. Inspect the Property Before Temperatures Drop

A full property walkthrough can reveal small problems that may become much harder to address once snow and ice arrive. Pay close attention to areas that affect drainage, pedestrian safety, and vehicle access. Your inspection should cover the following parts of the property:

• Look for damaged pavement, uneven walkways, and loose curbs
• Check the roof for damaged materials, weak spots, or active leaks
• Clear leaves and debris from gutters, downspouts, and roof drains
• Trim dead or damaged branches near buildings and parking areas
• Test sump pumps and other exterior drainage systems
• Confirm that parking lot, walkway, and entrance lights work properly
  
  

2. Finalize Your Snow and Ice Management Plan

Commercial snow contractors often organize their service routes well before the first storm. Waiting until snow is already in the forecast may leave a property without reliable coverage or a clearly defined response plan. Before winter begins, confirm these important details with your contractor:

• The snowfall amount that triggers service
• Which parking lots, driveways, and access roads will be cleared
• How entrances, steps, and pedestrian walkways will be handled
• When salting and de-icing materials will be applied
• How overnight or extended storms will be managed
• Who will receive service updates and weather-related communication

Everyone involved should understand what is included in the agreement. Clear expectations make it easier to coordinate service and avoid confusion during the first storm.

3.Map Snow Storage and Equipment Access

Snow piles need to be placed where they will not interfere with normal use of the property. A poorly selected location can reduce parking, block visibility, cover drainage points, or create problems as the snow melts. Walk the site with your snow contractor and identify appropriate areas before the ground is covered.

Snow storage locations should not block:

• Accessible parking spaces and access aisles
• Fire hydrants and fire department connections
• Loading docks and delivery routes
• Building entrances and emergency exits
• Storm drains and catch basins
• Driver sightlines at entrances and intersections

Contractors also need enough room to operate plows and other equipment safely. Remove temporary obstacles and make sure gates, loading areas, and service entrances can be accessed when crews arrive.

4. Prepare Entrances and High-Traffic Areas

Entrances, sidewalks, steps, and ramps can become slippery even when the parking lot has been cleared. These areas should be included in the property’s first-storm plan because they experience steady foot traffic throughout the day. Assign responsibility for monitoring the following areas between scheduled service visits:

• Main and secondary building entrances
• Steps, ramps, and accessible routes
• Walkways between buildings and parking areas
• Employee entrances and loading zones
• Shaded pavement where ice may remain longer

Keep functional shovels, ice melt, and warning signs in an accessible location. Staff should also know when and how to use these supplies without interfering with the contractor’s work

5. Protect Pipes, HVAC Systems, and Backup Power

Freezing temperatures can affect more than outdoor pavement. Exposed pipes, heating equipment, and backup power systems should be checked before the first winter storm creates an emergency. A little preparation can help prevent frozen plumbing, heating interruptions, and costly building damage.

Insulate pipes in unheated areas, crawlspaces, and near exterior walls. Schedule heating system maintenance, test backup generators, and confirm that fuel supplies are adequate. Exterior vents and equipment should also remain clear of stored materials and future snow piles.

Plan for Melting Snow and Refreezing

The first storm may be followed by warmer daytime temperatures and another freeze overnight. Melting snow can flow across pavement, collect near entrances, and turn into ice after temperatures fall. Keeping gutters, roof drains, catch basins, and downspouts clear gives that water a better place to go.

Low areas and shaded sections of pavement may require additional attention. Include these locations on the property map so they can be monitored and treated as conditions change.

6. Communicate the Plan With Employees and Tenants

A winter plan works better when everyone knows what to expect. Before the first storm, share basic information about parking restrictions, temporary closures, snow storage areas, and the best way to report a hazardous condition. This communication can help prevent vehicles or deliveries from disrupting scheduled service.

Property managers should also maintain an updated contact list for contractors, maintenance staff, tenants, and emergency services. Decide who has the authority to request additional work if conditions change during the storm.

Start the Season With a Property-Specific Winter Plan

At Reynolds & Juett Associates, we prepare for winter by learning how each commercial property functions before the first storm arrives. We identify priority areas, service triggers, equipment access points, and suitable locations for snow storage. This allows us to provide coordinated support throughout the season, including:

• Plowing parking lots, driveways, and access roads
• Clearing entrances, walkways, steps, and narrow spaces
• Applying salt and de-icing materials to slippery surfaces
• Relocating snow when piles begin limiting space or visibility

Prepare Your Commercial Property Before the First Snowfall

Do not wait until Michigan’s first snowstorm arrives to decide how your property will be handled. A clear plan gives your business more time to address hazards, protect important access points, and prepare for changing conditions. Our team can create a snow and ice management plan suited to your commercial property. Contact us today to request a quote and prepare your site for the winter ahead.