When you own a business, deferred repairs can make your establishment look bad and create legal liability. Small issues can get worse fast and increase damage to critical assets. Staying on top of necessary repairs protects your revenue and reputation.
Here are the top 7 repairs you don’t want to overlook.
- Uneven parking lots and sidewalks
Any parking lot or sidewalk you own should be maintained in good repair. Customers will notice when your parking lot is full of potholes and when your sidewalks are cracked. And if these walking surfaces are uneven, you’re asking for a lawsuit. Cracked pavement, uneven sidewalks, and potholes increase the risk of slip-and-fall injuries and vehicle damage. As a business owner, you have a duty to maintain these areas to prevent accidents.
Concrete slabs that are sinking into the ground are especially hazardous to your customers and employees. Taking the time to level your concrete slabs is far cheaper than defending yourself against a personal injury claim. For instance, Polyrenewal is a simple solution for sunken concrete that only takes about 15 minutes to cure. The area can be available for use in just a couple of hours.
- Roof leaks and broken gutters
If you have a leaky roof, it can damage your insulation, drywall, electrical systems, and walls long before you see any stains. This can be avoided with regular roof inspections and prompt maintenance when issues are discovered. Small leaks often come from damaged flashing or worn sealant. If you don’t handle a small leak immediately, it can turn into a major structural problem.
Keeping your gutters clean and in good repair is part of roof maintenance. Gutters are designed to channel water away from the building. When they overflow, the water gets directed into the walls and foundation. Fixing roof-related issues – including replacing broken gutters – might cost hundreds of dollars, but a full roof and drywall replacement can cost tens of thousands.
- HVAC problems
Your heating and cooling system provides a comfortable environment for your employees and customers. If your HVAC system isn’t working properly, it can derail employee productivity and make customers shop somewhere else.
Clogged filters will force your system to work harder, which will increase your energy bills and wear on the system. If your thermostat is broken, the temperatures might not be accurate. And small mechanical issues like a failing motor or worn belt can turn into a total system failure when you need your system the most.
Regular HVAC inspections and professional maintenance can prevent many of these issues from turning into a breakdown.
- Plumbing and water issues
Water damage from a single leaking faucet can destroy the surrounding area if you aren’t aware of the leak. It can also waste more than 3,000 gallons of water in a year – water you’ll have to pay for.
If you have older plumbing, it could fail without warning. Blocked drains can shut down your restrooms or the kitchen and force you to close temporarily. Proactive plumbing maintenance and repairs can prevent costly downtime and protect against extensive water damage that your insurance policy might not cover.
- Electrical malfunctions
Electrical problems pose both safety and operational risks. If you have older wiring and panels, it’s a good idea to update them with modern designs. Building codes are constantly being updated, and if it’s been decades since you’ve updated your breaker boxes and wiring, you’re overdue.
- Malfunctioning doors and windows
There are many reasons doors and windows fail to operate as they should. Issues can be caused by moisture, a shifting foundation, or poor installation. Regardless of the reason, malfunctioning doors and windows often affect security and accessibility. Failed seals will increase your energy costs by allowing both hot and warm air to escape, keeping your HVAC system running nonstop. And small gaps are an invitation for moisture, pests, and mold.
- Repairs that impact safety
Any issues that create a safety hazard should be a top priority, especially if the problem violates building codes. Code compliance isn’t optional. At the very least, you need functional fire alarms and a fire suppression system (like sprinklers), secure handrails and stairs, and your building should meet all required accessibility standards set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Violating required codes can result in fines and lawsuits.
Preventive repairs are important
Staying on top of critical repairs, no matter how small, lowers your risk of being sued. When you prioritize preventive maintenance and immediate repairs, you’ll spend less money over time while protecting your professional image.
Peyman Khosravani is a seasoned expert in blockchain, digital transformation, and emerging technologies, with a strong focus on innovation in finance, business, and marketing. With a robust background in blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi), Peyman has successfully guided global organizations in refining digital strategies and optimizing data-driven decision-making. His work emphasizes leveraging technology for societal impact, focusing on fairness, justice, and transparency. A passionate advocate for the transformative power of digital tools, Peyman’s expertise spans across helping startups and established businesses navigate digital landscapes, drive growth, and stay ahead of industry trends. His insights into analytics and communication empower companies to effectively connect with customers and harness data to fuel their success in an ever-evolving digital world.
