What it means to winterize your home & insurance

A single frozen pipe burst, and you’re suddenly facing tens of thousands of dollars in water damage repairs.

Unfortunately, many homeowners face this every year—but it doesn't have to happen to you.

Here’s how you can protect your home and ensure your insurance has you covered when winter strikes:

1. Add Weather Stripping: Seal drafty windows and doors to keep your home warm and prevent mold buildup. This simple fix lowers energy bills and helps avoid water damage that could lead to a claim.
2. Insulate Your Pipes: Frozen pipes can burst, causing a costly mess. Insulate exposed pipes and let faucets drip in cold weather to prevent damage. This simple step can save you over $12,000 in repair costs. Check if your policy covers water backup for added protection.
3. Ready Your Roof: Your roof takes a beating in winter. Proper attic insulation and ventilation can prevent issues. Check your homeowners policy for snow and ice damage coverage.

4. Clean Your Gutters: Prevent roof damage by regularly cleaning clogged gutters to avoid ice buildup. Gutter guards add extra protection. Some insurers may deny claims if damage is due to neglect.

5. Service Heating Systems: Have your furnace, boiler, or chimney checked annually to reduce fire risk. Regular maintenance ensures efficiency and could impact your insurance claim if something goes wrong.

6. Check Your Detectors: Winter increases fire risk, so ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work. Homeowners can receive insurance discounts for having these essential safety devices.

At Heron Hill Risk Management, we ensure you're ready for what the cold throws your way. If you're unsure about your coverage, contact our Insurance Professionals for a thorough and personalized review.