Winter Stormwater Prep: Protecting Your Property Before the Snow Flies
For commercial property owners, property managers, developers, HOAs, and condo associations, stormwater infrastructure is easy to forget about — until winter exposes hidden problems. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can overwhelm drainage systems, damage catch basins, and lead to costly flooding once things thaw.
At Amex Construction, we help properties across the South Shore and Cape Cod prepare for the toughest months of the year. Here’s why winter prep and maintenance for stormwater systems are so important.
Why Winter Is Hard on Stormwater Systems
Freeze–Thaw Cycles – Water expands when it freezes, which can crack pipes, basins, and joints.
Snowmelt Surges – When snow melts quickly, drainage systems get hit with heavy runoff that exposes blockages and weak spots.
Sand & Salt Build-Up – De-icing materials accumulate in basins and pipes, reducing flow and clogging infiltration systems.
Blocked Inlets – Snow plows often push snow and debris over catch basins, preventing proper drainage.
Key Winter Prep Steps
1. Inspect Catch Basins and Drains
Identify blockages, cracks, or collapsed structures before the ground freezes. This helps prevent backups and flooding during thaw.
2. Clean Out Debris
Leaves, trash, and sediment should be removed from basins and swales so winter runoff can move freely.
3. Check Infiltration Systems
Subsurface infiltration beds and detention ponds need inspection to make sure they can handle seasonal flows.
4. Mark Drainage Inlets
Plow crews often bury storm drains. Marking them prevents snow piles from blocking critical inlets.
5. Plan for Snowmelt Management
Designate safe snow storage areas away from drainage swales, wetlands, and stormwater outlets to avoid contamination.
Why This Matters for Property Managers & Associations
Prevent Flooding & Liability – Ponding water in parking lots or near walkways is a safety hazard.
Protect Property Value – Failed stormwater systems lead to erosion, sinkholes, and costly repairs.
Stay Compliant – Many towns and the EPA require ongoing maintenance under MS4 permits and the Clean Water Act. Neglecting inspections can result in violations.
Save Money Long-Term – Preventative maintenance is always less expensive than emergency repairs.
How Amex Construction Can Help
We provide stormwater inspections and maintenance services that keep your property compliant and functioning year-round. Our team is experienced with:
Catch basin cleaning and repair
Detention/retention pond maintenance
Subsurface infiltration inspections
SWPPP-compliant site inspections for commercial, residential, and municipal properties
We understand the regulations from MA DEP, EPA, NPDES, and MS4 — and we make sure your site stays in line with them.
Don’t Wait Until the First Snowstorm
Winter puts every stormwater system to the test. By preparing now, you can avoid costly surprises in the spring.
👉 Contact Amex Construction today to schedule a stormwater inspection or winter prep service. Protect your property, your residents, and your bottom line.
