The Hidden Insurance Risks of Fall: A Homeowners Checklist Before Winter

Fall brings colorful leaves to the Mohawk Valley, cooler temperatures, and the reminder that winter isn’t far behind. It’s also one of the best times for homeowners to identify small maintenance issues before snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and winter storms turn them into costly problems.

While homeowners insurance can provide valuable protection when unexpected losses occur, prevention is always preferable to the hassle of filing a claim. Before winter arrives, consider these seven important checks around your home.

1. Clean Your Gutters

Falling leaves can quickly clog gutters and downspouts. When water can’t drain properly, it may back up under roofing materials or collect near your home’s foundation. Once freezing temperatures arrive, clogged gutters can also contribute to ice dams.

Clean gutters thoroughly and make sure downspouts direct water safely away from your foundation.

2. Inspect Your Roof

Winter can be especially hard on a roof. Look for missing, loose, curled, or damaged shingles, as well as deteriorated flashing around chimneys, skylights, and vents. A minor roof problem in October can become a significant water-damage problem after heavy snow or freezing rain.

If you aren’t comfortable inspecting the roof yourself, consider hiring a qualified professional.

3. Service Your Heating System

Your furnace or boiler will soon be working overtime. Having your heating system professionally inspected can improve efficiency while identifying potential problems before they become emergencies.

Regular maintenance may also reduce the risk of heating-related fires and carbon monoxide problems.

4. Check the Fireplace and Chimney

A crackling fire is one of the pleasures of cold weather, but fireplaces and chimneys need regular attention. Creosote buildup can create a serious fire hazard, while damaged chimney components may allow smoke or dangerous gases into the home.

If you regularly use your fireplace, consider having the chimney inspected and cleaned by a qualified professional.

5. Protect Outdoor Plumbing

Frozen pipes are a common source of expensive winter water damage. Disconnect garden hoses, drain outdoor faucets when appropriate, shut off exterior water lines where possible, and properly winterize sprinkler systems.

Also consider insulating vulnerable pipes in garages, basements, crawl spaces, and other areas exposed to cold temperatures.

6. Trim Trees and Remove Dangerous Limbs

Dead, damaged, or overhanging branches can become dangerous when weighed down by snow and ice or subjected to strong winter winds. Falling limbs can damage roofs, vehicles, fences, sheds, and other property.

Have questionable trees and branches evaluated before severe weather arrives—particularly those close to your home.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As furnaces, fireplaces, wood stoves, and other heating equipment return to regular use, functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors become especially important. Test every detector and replace batteries as needed. Replace older units according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

A Little Prevention Can Go a Long Way

Water damage, fires, frozen pipes, ice, and falling trees can lead to serious property damage. A weekend spent preparing your home this fall could prevent a major headache this winter.

Fall is also a good time for an insurance coverage review. Home improvements, rising reconstruction costs, and changes to your property can affect the protection you need. Contact us at Scalzo, Zogby & Wittig to make sure your homeowners coverage is ready for whatever winter brings.

Until next time,

Your SZW Team

SZW Insurance is your Utica area Trusted Choice™ independent insurance agent. Call us for a quote on insurance for your home, car, business, or life at 315.792.0000. Or request a quote here.