Across the country, late January saw a massive, multi-day winter storm that impacted over 40 states, causing widespread power outages and significant property damage. Preliminary economic losses are estimated between $105 billion and $115 billion, according to AccuWeather.
This is a reminder of how important it is to take precautions to mitigate losses, especially for senior living facilities, which face heightened property risk from severe weather events such as heavy rainfall, flash flooding, straight-line winds, hail, and severe thunderstorms. While the safety of residents and patients is always the top priority, these events can cause significant property damage, disrupt operations, displace occupants, and lead to costly repairs.
Proactive risk-mitigation measures focused on protecting buildings and critical systems can materially reduce the severity of weather-related property losses.
Understanding Severe Weather-Driven Property Exposures
Flooding and severe storms often result in water intrusion through roofs, windows, and building foundations, as well as damage from wind-borne debris and overwhelmed drainage systems. Senior living facilities are particularly vulnerable due to ground-level occupancy, extensive interior finishes, aging infrastructure, and the presence of mechanical and electrical systems located below grade.
Losses are frequently compounded when water intrusion goes undetected, leading to secondary damage such as mold growth, insulation saturation, and deterioration of flooring, drywall, and structural components. Identifying site-specific exposures, such as flood-prone areas, roof condition, and the location of critical equipment, is a foundational step in loss prevention.
Flood Mitigation and Water Intrusion Prevention
Flooding remains one of the most severe drivers of property loss during widespread weather events. Facilities should evaluate the elevation of mechanical, electrical, and IT systems and, where feasible, elevate or protect equipment located in basements or ground-level rooms. Doorways, loading docks, and other low-lying openings should be assessed for flood barrier compatibility, including the use of removable flood panels or water-resistant seals.
Drainage systems play a critical role in flood prevention. Roof drains, downspouts, storm drains, and catch basins should be routinely inspected and debris cleared, particularly ahead of forecasted heavy rainfall. Poor drainage and clogged systems are a common cause of preventable interior flooding.
Sump pumps should be tested regularly and equipped with backup power sources. Battery or generator-supported pumps help ensure continued operation during power outages, which often coincide with severe weather events.
Roof, Envelope, and Wind-Driven Rain Protection
Severe thunderstorms and straight-line winds frequently cause roof damage that allows water intrusion even without structural failure. A formal roof inspection and maintenance program should be in place, with inspections conducted annually and following major weather events. Particular attention should be paid to flashing, seams, penetrations, and rooftop equipment curbs.
Building envelopes should also be evaluated for vulnerabilities. Aging windows, deteriorated seals, and damaged exterior cladding increase the risk of wind-driven rain entering occupied spaces. Timely repairs and sealant maintenance help prevent widespread interior damage during prolonged storms.
Loose exterior items, such as signage, outdoor furnishings, and non-essential rooftop materials, should be identified in advance and secured or removed when severe weather is anticipated to reduce impact damage.
Power Outages and Secondary Property Damage
Severe weather events often result in power disruptions that can lead to secondary property damage, even when floodwaters do not enter buildings. Emergency generators should be maintained, tested under load, and protected from flood exposure. Fuel supplies should be sufficient for extended outages, and transfer switches should be inspected to ensure reliable operation.
Sensitive building systems, including HVAC equipment and building automation controls, should be protected against moisture intrusion and electrical surges. Surge protection and proper grounding can help prevent equipment failures that extend downtime and increase restoration costs.
Post-Event Inspections and Damage Control
Prompt post-storm inspections are critical to minimizing loss severity. Facilities should inspect roofs, attics, mechanical rooms, and interior spaces for signs of water intrusion or damage as soon as conditions allow. Early detection enables temporary repairs, such as water extraction or roof tarping, to prevent further deterioration.
Documenting damage through photographs, maintenance records, and inspection reports supports efficient claims handling and demonstrates proactive property management. Establishing relationships with restoration contractors in advance can significantly reduce response times following widespread severe weather events.
Building Resilience Through Proactive Planning
Senior living facilities that incorporate severe weather and flood mitigation into their broader property risk management strategies are better positioned to withstand increasingly frequent and intense weather events. Preventive maintenance, infrastructure assessments, and pre-event planning help reduce property damage, shorten recovery timelines, and protect long-term asset value.
About Seneca Insurance Companies
Seneca Insurance Companies provides Commercial Property insurance for senior living facilities. Our appetite in this sector includes nursing homes, assisted living facilities, long-term care, independent living, and continued care retirement communities (CCRCs).