Winter in the Mahoning Valley can be hard on homes, and many common claims are tied to cold weather: frozen pipes, ice buildup on the roof, and water in the basement during a thaw. The ideas below are general maintenance tips many homeowners use to help lower those risks. They are not guarantees, and no checklist can prevent every loss, but a little preparation can go a long way.
1. Help protect pipes from freezing
- Consider insulating pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, garages and along outside walls.
- During extreme cold, some homeowners let faucets drip or open cabinet doors to let warmer air reach the pipes.
- If you will be away, keep your home heated. Ask a plumber or heating professional what setting makes sense for your home.
- Know where your main water shutoff is so you can act quickly if a pipe does burst.
2. Keep gutters clear
Clogged gutters can contribute to ice dams along the roof edge, which may let melting snow work its way under shingles. Clearing leaves and debris before the snow arrives is a good habit.
3. Check your sump pump
Many homeowners test their sump pump before winter and consider a battery backup in case of a power outage. A plumber can help you decide what fits your home.
4. Have your heating system looked at
Routine furnace service and chimney cleaning by a qualified professional can help your system run safely and efficiently through the season.
5. Watch for snow and ice on walkways
Slips and falls are a common winter concern. Keeping sidewalks, steps and driveways cleared and treated, and making sure railings are secure, can help reduce the risk.
6. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Fresh batteries and a quick test are worth doing at the start of the season. Check the manufacturer’s date on each detector, since they don’t last forever.
Know what your policy covers
Every policy is different. In general, many homeowners policies cover certain sudden and accidental damage, while damage that develops over time or relates to maintenance is often excluded. Water or sewer backup is usually not included unless it is added to your policy, and flood coverage is a separate policy. The only way to know for sure is to review your own policy, and we are happy to walk through it with you.
Not sure what your policy includes? Call my agency at 234-254-5660 or request a call back, and we’ll take care of the review for you.
These tips are general information only and are not a guarantee against damage or loss. Following them does not ensure a claim will not occur, and they are not a substitute for advice from a qualified contractor or professional. Coverage depends on your specific policy terms, conditions and exclusions, which vary by carrier.
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