Every May, Building Safety Month iterates the importance of strong building codes and responsible property management. For business owners and commercial property managers, code compliance cannot be considered a mere regulatory requirement—it plays a key role in protecting people, property and long-term investments. Revised building codes help reduce safety hazards and expose liability risks, while strengthening construction. By making sure that your property adheres to current guidelines, you can contribute to a protected environment while backing your overall risk management strategy.


Codes Evolve — Your Property Should Too

Building codes aren't static. They're updated periodically to reflect new safety research, construction standards and risk data. What passed inspection five years ago may no longer meet today's requirements. For commercial property owners, that gap isn't just a compliance issue — it's a financial vulnerability. Outdated systems, aging electrical panels or non-compliant fire suppression can quietly expose you to fines, tenant disputes and liability claims that hit hard and fast.


Non-Compliance Can Cost You Your Coverage

Here's what many property owners don't realize until it's too late — your insurance policy assumes your building is up to code. When a loss occurs, insurers investigate. If your property falls short of compliance benchmarks, you risk reduced claim payouts or outright denials at the worst possible moment. Ordinance or Law coverage exists precisely for situations where upgrades are required after a covered loss, but it only protects you if it's already part of your policy. Now is the time to check.


A Proactive Review Can Save You More Than Money

Regular walkthroughs with your property manager, contractor and insurance advisor help identify vulnerabilities before they become liabilities — and demonstrate due diligence that strengthens your legal standing if you're ever challenged. Building Safety Month is the perfect moment to take stock of where your property stands — and where your coverage may have gaps.

“Advisors at Massey, Clark, Fischer aren't reactive, we guide you to safeguard the most valuable assets well in advance. We review, update and help you stay ahead of the risk. — H.W. “Hank” Massey, Jr., President, Massey, Clark, Fischer, Inc.


Building Safety Month is the nudge worth taking seriously. The commercial property owners who stay protected aren't the ones who react to problems, they're the ones who review their exposure before problems find them. Massey, Clark, Fisher offers coverage options that align with our client’s unique business needs. With more than 65 years of experience, we are here to help you navigate a comprehensive policy review process, all at no additional cost — Contact us.

Hank Massey Jr. majored in Insurance at the University of Florida and graduated with his B.S. in Business Administration in 1983. He earned his 2-20 General Lines Property & Casualty and Life & Health license at that time. He earned a distinction as Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU®) in October of 1994 and Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU®) in March of 2000.

Disclaimer: The above description provides a brief overview of the terms and phrases used within the insurance industry. These definitions are not applicable in all states or for all insurance and financial products. This is not an insurance contract. Other terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please read your official policy for full details about coverages. These definitions do not alter or modify the terms of any insurance contract. If there is any conflict between these definitions and the provisions of the applicable insurance policy, the terms of the policy control.