Summer in Utah brings more than heat—it also signals the arrival of sudden thunderstorms, heavy rains, and strong winds. For commercial properties, these unpredictable weather events can cause serious disruptions, safety hazards, and landscape damage. Proactive preparation is essential to protect your investment, ensure tenant safety, and minimize costly repairs. At OneSource Property Maintenance, we help property managers stay ahead of summer storms with strategic planning and reliable maintenance services. Here’s how to prepare your commercial landscape for summer weather threats.

Understanding Storm Risks in Utah

While Utah may not experience hurricanes or tropical storms, the state is prone to:

• Flash flooding from intense rainfall
• High winds that break branches or uproot trees
• Lightning strikes that affect electrical systems
• Debris and erosion caused by sudden downpours

These storm effects can result in blocked walkways, property damage, and even injuries if not properly managed. Commercial properties with expansive landscapes, open parking areas, and mature trees are particularly vulnerable.

Key Areas to Evaluate Before Storm Season

1. Tree Health and Canopy Management
Overgrown, weakened, or damaged trees pose a major risk during summer storms. Falling limbs or entire tree failures can cause serious damage to buildings, cars, and walkways. OneSource’s ISA-certified arborists inspect for dead limbs, split branches, and signs of disease. Proper pruning and structural trimming prevent limb breakage and improve airflow through the canopy, reducing wind resistance.

2. Drainage Systems
Stormwater management is critical for preventing flooding and water damage. We check for clogged storm drains, compacted soil, and landscape grades that may direct water toward buildings instead of away. Installing or maintaining bioswales, dry creek beds, or French drains can mitigate these risks. Properties with poor drainage may also experience turf degradation and root rot, making preventative work essential.

3. Irrigation System Checks
Malfunctioning irrigation systems can compound storm problems. If sprinklers are running during or after heavy rain, it not only wastes water but increases runoff risk. Before summer storms hit, we ensure timers are adjusted, sensors are calibrated, and all zones are functioning correctly. Smart controllers with rain sensors are especially effective in reducing unnecessary watering and adapting to weather changes.

4. Hardscape Stability
Walkways, patios, and retaining walls must withstand water flow and ground movement. We inspect for cracks, loose pavers, and unstable slopes that may deteriorate further during storms. Uneven or damaged hardscapes can also become trip hazards after rainfall. Proper reinforcement and timely repairs help prevent long-term erosion and damage.

5. Loose Debris and Landscape Materials
Storm winds can turn unsecured items into projectiles. Mulch, branches, tools, and loose signage should be secured or removed before forecasted storms. Regular site cleanup and monitoring ensure that outdoor spaces remain safe and storm-ready.

6. Turf and Groundcover Conditions
Healthy turf provides a first line of defense against erosion. We assess soil stability, root health, and drainage in lawn areas, addressing bare spots or compacted zones that could wash away during storms. We also ensure groundcover plantings are secure and thriving.

Preventive Maintenance Services from OneSource

Storm readiness is built on routine care. Our preventive services include:

• Seasonal tree trimming and pruning: Reducing canopy density to minimize wind damage
• Drainage evaluations and improvements: Ensuring efficient water flow and proper grading
• Inspection and maintenance of retaining structures: Preventing slope failure and wall collapse
• Turf management to reduce erosion risk: Improving root development and soil integrity
• Smart irrigation audits: Enhancing system efficiency and responsiveness to rain events

By addressing these areas consistently, property managers reduce the risk of sudden failures and improve overall property resilience.

Emergency Response Planning

Even with the best preparation, summer storms can bring unexpected challenges. OneSource offers emergency response support for our commercial clients, including:

• Post-storm damage assessment and cleanup
• Removal of fallen trees, limbs, and debris
• Repair of irrigation or lighting systems
• Coordination with insurance and restoration services
• Fast mobilization of crews for high-priority areas

Our team is trained to respond quickly and safely, minimizing downtime and restoring your property to its best condition efficiently.

Communication and Safety for Tenants

Property managers should have a storm communication plan in place. This includes:

• Notifying tenants of upcoming service preparations
• Providing updates on service restoration after a storm
• Marking or closing off hazardous areas until repairs are made
• Sharing contact points for emergency service requests

Clear signage, email alerts, and coordinated emergency procedures enhance safety and maintain tenant confidence during adverse weather events. We work with clients to create custom emergency protocols and provide support documentation when needed.

Long-Term Planning for Storm Resilience

Preparing for a single storm is important, but building long-term resilience is even more critical. We help properties develop multi-year plans that phase in structural improvements, landscape upgrades, and system modernizations.

This might include:

• Installing permeable pavers or porous surfaces to improve water infiltration
• Replacing older trees with wind-resistant varieties
• Building out rain gardens and natural drainage features
• Upgrading landscape lighting to weatherproof systems
• Retrofitting outdated irrigation zones for smart technology compatibility

These upgrades reduce liability, enhance aesthetic appeal, and support sustainability goals.

Why Partner with OneSource?

OneSource Property Maintenance brings experience, efficiency, and reliability to every aspect of commercial landscape care. We take a proactive approach to storm preparedness, working closely with property managers to ensure:

• Safety for residents, customers, and staff
• Reduced repair and liability costs
• Consistent property appearance and value
• Rapid response when emergencies arise

We understand the unique challenges Utah properties face and tailor our services accordingly. Our team provides expert planning, hands-on service, and clear communication every step of the way.

Schedule a Storm Readiness Inspection

Don’t wait for storm clouds to gather—take action now. A landscape audit from OneSource identifies vulnerabilities, provides actionable recommendations, and ensures your property is ready for whatever the season brings.

Call us today at (801) 599-0319 or contact us now to schedule your storm preparedness consultation. Let OneSource help you weather the season with confidence and peace of mind.