Boarded storefront window with a ladder after damage. A general example of this kind of work, not a photo of a particular home, business or job.
The situation
Illustrative example. Not a real job or customer.
A small retail shop leases a unit in a single-story strip center along a busy Colorado Springs corridor. A storm with wind-driven hail moves through mid-afternoon. Two large front panes crack and one shatters, scattering glass across the sales floor. Rain blows in on merchandise near the window. The building owner manages the property from another city.
- The shop owner moves staff and customers to the back of the store, away from the windows, until the storm passes.
- The owner photographs the broken glass, the wet merchandise and the storefront from outside.
- The owner calls the property manager and reads the lease, which makes the landlord responsible for storefront glass and the roof.
- Because the manager cannot get help out before dark, the shop owner gets written permission to arrange emergency board-up and sends the invoice to the landlord.
- Staff move dry merchandise away from the opening, set aside wet items, and list them for the shop's own claim.
- The shop owner calls their business insurer about damaged inventory and lost income while the store is closed.
The storefront is boarded that evening, and the shop reopens two days later with clear panels in place while new glass is ordered. The landlord's insurer handles the glass and frame. The tenant's policy handles damaged inventory and some lost income, subject to its waiting period and terms.
What helped this business recover quickly
- Moving people away from cracked glass during the storm, not after.
- Knowing where to find the lease and what it said about glass.
- Getting permission in writing before arranging work on the landlord's building.
- Photographing inventory before cleanup and keeping damaged items until the adjuster saw them.
- Posting a sign and an online notice so customers knew when the shop would reopen.
- Choosing clear panels so the shop looked open while waiting for glass.
Questions for a tenant business to settle before storm season
- Who is responsible for storefront glass, the roof, and interior finishes under the lease?
- Does my policy include business income coverage, and how long is its waiting period?
- Who do I call at the property management company after hours?
- Does the lease allow me to arrange emergency work and be reimbursed?
- Are my improvements, like custom shelving and signage, covered by my policy or the landlord's?
General information for Colorado Springs, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.