Freeze-Proof Your Home

By: Danielle Shearer

Cold temperatures, snow and ice can cause costly damage to a home — but a little preparation can reduce the risk. Before the first deep freeze, use this checklist to help keep your property safe, warm and protected throughout the winter.

• Clear gutters and downspouts. Remove leaves and debris so melting snow and ice can drain away from your roof and foundation.
• Seal out drafts. Inspect windows and exterior doors, and use caulk or weatherstripping to close gaps that allow cold air and moisture inside.
• Service your heating system. Schedule routine maintenance, replace HVAC filters and keep vents clear for safe, efficient operation.
• Test safety devices. Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, replace batteries as needed and keep portable heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn.
• Protect outdoor areas. Store or cover patio furniture, inspect railings and steps, and keep snow-removal supplies readily available.
• Review emergency supplies. Keep flashlights, batteries, blankets, food, water and device chargers on hand in case winter weather causes a power outage.

Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

Water expands as it freezes, placing pressure on pipes and increasing the chance of a rupture. Pipes in exterior walls, basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages and cabinets are especially vulnerable.

• Drain outdoor water lines. Disconnect hoses, shut off exterior faucet supply valves and drain remaining water.
• Insulate vulnerable pipes. Protect plumbing in basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages and exterior walls.
• Keep warm air circulating. Close garage doors and open sink cabinets during extreme cold.
• Maintain heat. Keep the thermostat at a consistent temperature, even when away, and let an exposed faucet drip during a deep freeze.
• Know your shutoff valve. Locate the main water valve so you can quickly stop the flow if a pipe bursts.

If You Suspect a Frozen Pipe

If only a trickle of water comes from a faucet, a pipe may be frozen. Turn off the main water supply if there is a leak or visible damage, and contact a licensed plumber. Never use an open flame to thaw a pipe.

If water damage occurs, take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, document the loss with photos and contact your insurance agent or carrier promptly.

Review Your Coverage Before Winter Arrives

• Confirm your dwelling limit reflects current rebuilding costs.
• Review deductibles and understand your potential out-of-pocket expenses.
• Ask how your policy addresses burst pipes, ice dams, falling trees and damage caused by the weight of snow or ice.
• Verify additional living expense coverage if a covered loss makes your home temporarily uninhabitable.
• Review personal property limits and whether belongings are covered at replacement cost or actual cash value.
• Update your home inventory with photos, descriptions and receipts.
• Check personal liability limits for injuries that may occur on icy walkways or driveways.
• Ask whether water or sewer backup coverage is included or available by endorsement.
• Remember that standard homeowners policies generally do not cover flooding; consider whether separate flood insurance is appropriate.
• Keep your policy number and insurance agency or carrier contact information readily available.

Coverage, deductibles, exclusions and policy conditions vary. Contact your insurance professional before winter weather arrives to review your protection and discuss any needed updates.

Don’t wait for the first freeze. Contact your insurance professional today to review your coverage, confirm your limits and deductibles, and make sure your home is protected for the winter ahead.

About Howard Hanna

Howard Hanna Real Estate Services proudly provides real estate, mortgage, title, and insurance services across 18 states. As the largest family-owned and -operated real estate brokerage in the United States, Howard Hanna operates more than 500 offices with 15,000 sales associates and staff. The company’s proprietary Hanna Success System helps its agents achieve 53% more business than agents at the top 1000 brokerages nationally. Learn more at www.HowardHanna.com.