With winter around the corner, garages — from repair shops to auto dealerships — face a unique set of risks that can quickly turn into costly claims if not addressed in advance. Cheryl Baier, CIC, RPS area assistant vice president, says that insurance agents play a key role in helping their garage clients prepare for colder months.

"Slip and falls are probably the most common liability claim we see in the winter," Baier explains, "but there are other hazards — including freezing pipes, wind damage and hail damage — that can be just as disruptive to operations if not managed properly."

Common Winter Hazards for Garages

Slip and Falls

Snow and ice buildup on walkways, sidewalks and parking lots creates dangerous conditions for customers and employees, resulting in slip and fall claims. Insureds should clear these areas regularly, use salt or sand and ensure safe paths from parking areas to service bays.

Baier also points out that lighting becomes even more important during the winter months: "With fewer daylight hours, garages should check that exterior lights are working properly so customers can see ice patches or uneven surfaces."

Freezing Pipes

Another critical concern is frozen pipes and water damage. Many garages aren't fully climate controlled, according to Baier, which makes them more vulnerable to freezing temperatures.

"Even if employees are working in the garage during the day, without adequate temperature control, pipes can still freeze and burst, damaging equipment and disrupting business," she says. Water damage can also impact customers' vehicles, creating additional liability exposures.

Additionally, Baier emphasizes equipment maintenance as a critical point: "If freezing pipes cause equipment to fail, it can lead to improper repairs or delays in service, which create liability exposures. Keeping the environment controlled helps make sure everything is working the way it should."

Severe Weather

Severe winter weather brings its own set of risks, including wind and snow loads. A heavy snowstorm or high winds can damage roofs, signage or unsecured equipment. In extreme cases, snow accumulation can even lead to roof collapse.

Baier recommends that insureds hire professionals to remove heavy snow from rooftops rather than putting employees at risk. Backup generators or contingency power sources can also be vital in keeping operations running during winter storms and preventing equipment outages.

In regions like Colorado and the Midwest, hail is another major threat to dealerships and repair shops.

"We're seeing more dealerships install canopies to shield vehicles from hail," noted Baier. "It's not foolproof — hail that comes in sideways can still do damage — but it significantly reduces the risk."

In addition, snowy or icy roads increase the risk of accidents during customer test drives or employee vehicle deliveries, leading to potential liability claims.

Property and Equipment Damage

The increased use of heating equipment and lighting during winter can overload electrical systems, potentially leading to fires or equipment failures. The use of portable space heaters in garages or offices can also increase the risk of fires if not used properly or if left unattended.

Vehicle Damage

Vehicles stored outdoors may experience battery failures, fluid freezing or tire damage due to extreme cold, which can lead to claims if customers' vehicles are affected.

Also, colder weather can drive rodents to seek shelter in garages or vehicles, causing damage to wiring, upholstery and other components. Rodent damage can lead to claims for vehicle repairs or property damage.

Health Risks

During colder months, garages may keep doors and windows closed to retain heat, which can lead to poor ventilation. Poor ventilation increases the risk of carbon monoxide buildup from running vehicles or heating systems, posing health risks to employees and customers.

Prevention Is the Best Form of Protection

Beyond property protection, garages can help their own customers stay safe during the winter season. Sending reminders about antifreeze levels, battery checks, tire inspections and proper snow tires not only supports safer driving but also builds goodwill between the garage and its clients. For agents, positioning insureds as proactive partners in safety can strengthen their client relationships and retention.

Speak to Your Clients Before the Cold Sets In

Discussing seasonal risks now with garage clients helps prevent costly claims later and positions you as a trusted advisor who understands the industry's unique exposures. From slip and falls to hailstorms, each hazard comes with practical steps insureds can take to reduce risk — and your guidance can make the difference.

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