As winter settles in, commercial properties face a distinct set of risks, from biting cold, icy conditions and shorter days to the increasing pressure on building systems. Strong winter safety measures are not simply good practice; they are essential for maintaining commercial building safety, protecting staff, tenants and visitors, and ensuring business continuity. In fact, robust planning and management of winter hazards form a core part of risk management for commercial properties.
Common Winter Hazards in Commercial Buildings
Cold weather and winter conditions bring a range of hazards that affect commercial properties which include:
- Icy walkways and car parks, increasing the likelihood of slips, trips and falls.
- Heating systems that fail or struggle under load, causing downtime and uncomfortable or unsafe environments
- Frozen or burst pipes, which could result in serious water damage and disruption to your business.
- Blocked or overloaded gutters, roof drainage systems and downpipes through snow/ice, leading to leaks or structural faults
- Increased fire risk linked to the use of space heaters, electrical load spikes and compromised systems
Addressing these issues early is an essential part of effective commercial building safety.
Legal Obligations for Landlords and Property Managers
Landlords and property managers of commercial properties have a clear duty of care under health and safety and building regulations to ensure their premises remain safe throughout the year — especially in winter. This includes:
- Carrying out regular inspections and risk assessments
- Ensuring heating, ventilation, plumbing and electrical systems are maintained and compliant
- Keeping external areas, entrances and communal spaces safe and accessible.
- Verifying that emergency exits, fire-safety equipment and alarm systems are fully functional and working.
Failure to meet these obligations can lead to liability claims, insurance issues and regulatory action, making this a key pillar of risk management for commercial properties.
Key Areas to Focus on for Winter Safety
Heating Systems and Energy Safety
- Reliable heating and safe energy use are critical in winter for commercial properties. Property managers should:
- Test boilers, HVAC and heating systems ahead of peak demand
- Check carbon monoxide detectors, thermostat controls and ventilation
- Ensure routine servicing of heating plant and greasing of moving parts
- Verify insulation levels and energy efficiency to reduce wasted energy and stress on systems
- Taking these steps supports not only safety and comfort but also cost-efficiency across your building portfolio.
Slips, Trips and Falls: Walkways & Entrances
- Slippery surfaces are one of the most frequent issues in winter-time for commercial building safety. Key actions include:
- Applying grit or salt to external walkways, steps, ramps and parking zones
- Ensuring entrance mats and non-slip flooring are in good condition
- Repairing uneven surfaces and ensuring good lighting at entrances and egress points
- Using clear signage during high-risk weather events (ice, snow, freezing rain)
- Preventing these kinds of everyday incidents is one of the most tangible ways to bolster winter risk management for commercial properties.
Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Winter can increase fire risks in commercial buildings, through higher use of heating equipment, lighting and electrical loads. To maintain commercial building safety:
- Test fire alarms, emergency lighting and ensure systems are serviced.
- Confirm fire doors are unobstructed and that escape routes are clear.
- Inspect fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems and fire-suppression equipment
- Review emergency and evacuation plans, especially for winter scenarios such as power failures or storm damage
- A proactive approach ensures your building remains compliant even when external conditions are challenging.
How Holloway Iliffe & Mitchell Helps Ensure Compliance
Inspections and Risk Assessments
Here at Holloway, Iliffe & Mitchell, we offer professional and tailored inspections for commercial properties in southern England, ensuring health & safety obligations and building compliance requirements are met. Their services include detailed risk assessments that help spot hazards and help you stay ahead of seasonal pressures. Get in touch with our friendly team to find out the full extent of the services we provide.
Maintenance Planning and Preventative Measures
Through planned maintenance programmes, scheduled servicing and tailored property-portfolio management, HI&M help protect your investment and ensure winter readiness. Their focus includes facilities management, periodic inspections and legal compliance across commercial assets.
Staff and Tenant Safety Training
A building is only as safe as the people using it. HI&M’s property management teams emphasise clear communication, tenant relations and proactive maintenance, supporting a culture of safety and compliance across your commercial properties.
Contact Us For Expert Support
Winter shouldn’t mean elevated risk for your commercial properties. With careful preparation, proactive inspections and ongoing maintenance, you can uphold strong commercial building safety, protect your occupants and maintain operational continuity.
If you’re looking for expert support in winter compliance and risk management for commercial properties, contact us at Holloway Iliffe & Mitchell today and ensure your building is fully compliant and ready for the winter.