When winter storms cause heavy accumulations of snow, property owners and residents of buildings, especially those with flat roofs, need to be aware of the weight loads and take precautions.

Take precautions to protect life and property

• Watch for falling snow and ice from roofs.
• Don't put untrained individuals on roofs to clear snow. Falls from roofs and possible exposure to electrical wires while on the roof are serious hazards.
• Inspect roofs for leaks or structural deficiencies that may develop during the storm.
• Make certain gutters, drains and downspouts are clear of ice and debris.
• Clear snow and ice away from exhaust vents that go through exterior walls.
• Clear decks of snow to reduce stress on them. 

After the storm

• Clear areas around downspouts so that water from melting snow has a path to flow away from the house or building.
• Remove snow from side walls to prevent high snow mounds from pushing them in.
• Temporarily shore up and brace dipping or sagging roofs or walls.
• Improper operation of doors or windows, deflection of ceiling finishes or exposed beams, roof leaks, or sprinkler heads moved from their normal positions could be signs of roof failure.

NOTE: We highly recommend hiring an experienced professional. Be sure that they are properly insured.

If you have questions about your building's condition, contact a structural engineer or your local building official for an assessment of the conditions.

If you have suffered storm damage to your property contact please contact our Claims Team at 800 222 8711 or dfmurphy.com/claims

Source: Hanover Insurance