The Brown & Brown Canada Property Claims team has assembled an overview of property damage warning signs following a winter storm. Learn how to identify and address these warning signs to help prepare for the upcoming Canadian winter season.  

 Warning Signs of Damage 

• Bowing, sagging and cracking fractured trusses/purlins are likely warning signs of overloading  

• Fresh cracking in plaster or drywall may suggest shifting or moving framing members  

• Doors suddenly become out of plumb or no longer shut properly  

These issues can also impact buildings in other regions of the country with a more moderate snowpack. Building codes are often not designed to carry the same snow loads anticipated in colder climates. Older buildings are especially susceptible due to building codes that may have been less stringent at the time of construction or aging building materials.   

Some of these signs may go unnoticed as people are absent from buildings due to remote work environments, holiday travel or other factors. Even while off-site from the building, be vigilant in checking for damage, especially after a snowfall or potentially catastrophic storm.  

Suggested Responses to Snow Load Issues or Signs of a Potential Collapse:  

• Contact a structural engineer to evaluate structural stability, and determine whether shoring or other emergency repairs are necessary.  

• Safely remove snow from the roof and hire outside vendors to assist when necessary. Be careful with snow blowers and other equipment, as additional damage can occur to the roof if not used correctly. Areas most susceptible to snow accumulation are along parapet walls, where there is a difference in roof elevations and valleys.  

• Keep operations and employees out of impacted areas until the licensed engineer determines the situation is stable and safe.  

• Evaluate whether it is safe to maintain utilities in the area or if they should be turned off as a precaution.  

• Notify your insurance carrier and broker of the situation as soon as possible.  

• Complete shoring and temporary repairs per engineer recommendations to mitigate further damage.  

• Take photos and videos, save invoices for incurred expenses and track internal labour used to respond to the situation. 

 If a Catastrophic Collapse Has Occurred:  

• Isolate the entire area from the balance of your premises or operation.  

• Notify your insurance carrier and broker.  

• Turn off utilities to help prevent further damage.  

• Identify alternate means of production or operations if they are impaired.  

• Contact a structural engineer to evaluate any remaining portions of the building.  

• Gather original building details, plans, specifications and other construction documents available. These will assist with both rebuilding and the insurance claim process.  

• Contact a contractor for the demolition and rebuilding of the structure. We suggest working with the adjuster to confirm agreement on the scope and pricing before completing any of the permanent repairs.  

Learn how Brown & Brown Canada can help if you have been impacted by heavy snowfall this season.  

Personal Insurance Team