Prevent winter related Homeowner’s Insurance claims by taking a few small steps towards winter-proofing your home. Before we get hit with “Old Man Winter” each year, it is important to take some time to get your home ready. Clean out rain gutters, so the water from melting snow and ice can flow freely. Trim trees back to prevent branches from breaking and falling under the weight of the ice and snow. Stock up on Rock Salt and have a shovel or snow blower ready. Keeping your sidewalks free and clear of snow and ice will help assure that no one falls, leaving you open to a liability claim. Also, make sure your home maintains a constant temperature on the inside to prevent pipes from freezing. And as always, make sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
In the event that you must file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance company, please remember to contact them immediately. Follow the instructions given to you by the representative handling the claim. And only make temporary repairs that will stop further damage until the claims adjuster can come inspect your property. For more information, check out this article from The Pennsylvania Insurance Department on winter-proofing your home.