As winter continues, the Farmers’ Almanac forecasted a classic Canadian winter for 2025–2026, featuring deep freezes, frequent snow, and powerful storms, along with occasional mild and rainy periods in Ontario, Quebec, and coastal provinces.
First Onsite Property Restoration, Canada’s leading property restoration company, has released its winter preparedness guides for commercial and residential property owners, residents, and property managers.
According to First Onsite’s annual property and weather survey, Canadians are increasingly concerned about winter-related risks. Compared to 2024, the results showed a significant increase in concerns, with 71 per cent worried about winter storms, 68 per cent about extreme cold and burst pipes, and 66 per cent about severe rains and flooding.
Beyond weather, 75 per cent of Canadians are concerned about climate change, 70 per cent about power outages, 60 per cent about property fires, and 72 per cent about the cost of major renovations and repairs.
“Colder temperatures, melting snow, and freeze-thaw cycles increase risks to homes and commercial properties,” said Jim Mandeville, Senior Vice President, First Onsite Property Restoration. “That’s why it’s important to take the time now to inspect your property and ensure it’s prepared for severe winter weather.”
Facility and maintenance managers need to take steps to stay prepared and protect their buildings this winter by:
- Assessing building risks– Check age, construction, insulation, and plumbing; address deferred maintenance issues.
- Maintaining exterior grading and drainage – Ensure water drains away from the foundation to reduce freeze/thaw damage.
- Assessing roof safety and maintenance – Inspect roofs, gutters, and downspouts; clear snow and assess snow load capacity.
- Sealing openings and managing unused spaces – Ensure doors, windows, and utility openings are sealed; keep unoccupied areas minimally heated and inspected.
- Checking on heating and power systems – Test generators, boilers, and HVAC systems; ensure backups are functional.
- Maximizing fire safety – Keep nearby fire hydrants clear of snow for emergency access.
As the weather becomes more extreme, facility and maintenance managers need to adapt a strategic approach to minimize damage and lower expenses this winter.
For First Onsite’s free guides for Canadian businesses, please visit this link.
