Heads-up advice from the experts at Burns & Wilcox, Lockton Cos. and Zurich Services Corp.

1. Visit the site regularly to inspect the building:

  • Make sure entry points are secure.
  • Ensure the building is being maintained well.
  • Look for evidence of trespassers.
  • Check for any deterioration of mechanical systems.
  • Make sure no trespassers are living there, especially in cold climates (a trespasser making a fire for warmth can burn down the building).
  • Make sure a trespasser getting hurt is a GL exposure for the insured.

2. Make sure burglar alarms are on and working.

3. Make sure the sprinkler system is working and emergency water service is connected.

4. Make sure the main water system is turned off.

5. Ensure the building grounds are being maintained:

  • Pick up any mail or papers.
  • Mow the grass around the building.

6. Make sure water pipes are well protected in cold weather:

  • Keep the heat on to keep them from freezing and bursting.
  • Or, shut off the domestic water if it's not going to be used.
  • Winterize the building.

7. Keep the fire-protection system in service.

8. Give the key-holder's name to local emergency-services personnel.

9. Make sure there's a visible presence around the property.

10. Don't make your inspection routine predictable: If the building is inspected once a day, make sure it's not at 8 a.m. every day.

11. Security guards are one element of a protection plan; make sure there's some kind of presence there on a regular basis.

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