As the summer warmth fades and the leaves begin to turn, autumn brings a noticeable shift in the weather. For business owners, this change in season also brings a unique set of challenges.

From darker evenings to wetter weather, autumn can directly impact the safety of your premises, your staff, and your daily operations. The good news is that taking a few simple steps now can save you a lot of stress (and money) later.

Here is our straightforward guide to getting your business ready for the autumn months.

1. Protect Your Property from the Elements

The autumn months are famous for wind, rain, and falling leaves. If your building is not prepared, this weather can cause significant disruption and damage.

• Clear your gutters: Blocked gutters are one of the most common causes of commercial water damage. Falling leaves quickly build up, causing rainwater to overflow and seep into your roof or walls. Have them cleared before the heavy rains start.
• Check your roof: A quick inspection of your roof can spot loose tiles or small gaps. Fixing these now prevents costly leaks during an autumn storm.
• Service your boiler: Do not wait until the first freezing Monday morning to find out your heating does not work. A quick service ensures your premises stay warm and comfortable for your team.

2. Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slip and trip accidents increase significantly in the workplace during autumn and winter.

• Tackle wet leaves: Fallen leaves turn into a slippery hazard as soon as it rains. Regularly sweep walkways, car parks, and entrances to keep them clear.
• Use absorbent mats: Rainwater tracked inside by shoes and umbrellas can quickly make hard floors dangerous. Place large, heavy-duty mats at all entrances to soak up the moisture.
• Improve outdoor lighting: As the days get shorter, your staff and customers might be arriving or leaving in the dark. Ensure your car parks and pathways are brightly lit to prevent accidental trips and falls.

3. Keep Your Business Vehicles Safe

If your business relies on vans, company cars, or lorries, autumn driving requires extra care and preparation.

• Check the tyres: Wet roads and fallen leaves reduce grip, meaning stopping distances can easily double. Ensure all business vehicles have plenty of tyre tread (well above the legal minimum of 1.6mm) to handle slippery conditions.
• Prepare for low sun: The autumn sun sits lower in the sky, creating severe glare for drivers. Make sure all windscreens are completely clean, both inside and out, and that the washer fluid is constantly topped up.
• Test the lights: With darker mornings and evenings, fully functioning headlights, taillights, and fog lights are essential for your team’s safety on the road.

4. Review Your Business Insurance

With the changing season comes the risk of storms, floods, and other unexpected events. Now is the perfect time to make sure your insurance actually covers what you need it to.

• Check your cover limits: As the cost of building materials and trade labour continues to rise, the cost to repair or rebuild your premises might be higher than you think. Make sure you are not underinsured.
• Update your inventory: If you have bought new tools, upgraded your equipment, or increased your stock levels ahead of the busy winter period, tell your insurance broker so these valuable items are protected.

Review Your Cover with One Call Insurance

Running a business takes up enough of your time without having to worry about whether you are properly protected against autumn weather.

At One Call Insurance, we are here to make things simple. We can help you review your current business policies to ensure your premises, vehicles, and staff are fully covered for the season ahead.

Ready to get prepared? Get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss your business insurance needs, without any pressure or hassle.

Sources

• Health and Safety Executive (HSE): Official workplace guidance on preventing slips and trips in autumn and winter, and managing workplace transport safety.
• Aviva Risk Management Solutions: Industry insights on autumn risk management, covering commercial property protection, underinsurance, and seasonal weather hazards.
• Gov.uk: General regulations on employer responsibilities regarding workplace health, safety, and welfare during adverse weather.