Depending on where you live, the winter is often an eventful season, where freezing temperatures and fierce snowstorms are often expected as part of the winter norm. Even if the weather is more forgiving, the inevitable cold temperatures can bring the need for costly repairs, and winter homeowners insurance claims can significantly raise the amount you have to pay on the next year’s premiums. If you’re adequately prepared, there are many risks of damage that can be avoided, reducing or eliminating the need for costly insurance claims.
Below we’ll list some of the most common winter homeowners insurance claims and what can be done to safeguard your home from these types of damages.
Burst or Frozen Pipes
With the winter season comes subzero temperatures, and this drastic drop in temperature doesn’t facilitate the good performance of your pipes. Water damage in particular can have a destructive effect on other parts of your home and because of this, the associated claims are often expensive.
A preemptive solution to this is to identify pipes that are uninsulated or running along exterior walls. Keep them protected from the cold by wrapping them with extra insulation. Switch off the valve to pipes that lead to outdoor sources such as the garden hose or sprinkler system.
If you plan to vacate your home for an extended period during the winter, don’t set your heat below 16 degrees, and leave your under-sink cabinet doors open to promote warm airflow around pipes. You should also have someone check on your property every 3 days.
Wind Damage
When facing a fierce winter storm, your home will have to endure powerful wind gusts that are a common cause of winter-related insurance claims. Whether it’s physical damage to your car or home or downed trees that need to be removed, some claims are not covered under standard insurance policies. To prepare for what could be a serious storm, remove or store outdoor furniture and other items that may not fare well against powerful winds. In addition, trim tree branches and preemptively remove trees that are weak to avoid trees falling on you or a neighbour’s property.
Slips and Falls
With the coming of winter, liability concerns rise due to increased risk caused by snow and ice. An effective strategy for preventing winter-related slips and falls and keeping your guests safe is to keep up with seasonal maintenance duties. Make sure to shovel and remove hazardous snow and ice from sidewalks, stairs, landings, driveways, and parking lots. In addition, make sure to provide ample lighting and secure lighting.
As we transition into winter, it’s important to be proactive and take preemptive steps to avoid winter-related insurance claims and maintain your financial security. If you are looking for a solution to your home insurance needs, request a free quote today. Our team of experienced insurance brokers can carefully assess your needs and determine the best plan for you.