Your Seasonal Checklist for a Safe, Warm, and Claim-Free Winter

As cold weather rolls across Utica and the rest of New York, homeowners know that winter can bring more than just snow and ice—it brings challenges that test your home, car, and insurance coverage.

Preparing now not only keeps your family safe but can also prevent costly claims later.

Before the first flakes fall, take a few simple steps to protect your property and ensure your insurance coverage is ready for whatever this winter brings.

1. Guard Against Frozen Pipes
Frozen or burst pipes are among the most common winter insurance claims in New York.

• Insulate exposed pipes in basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
• Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F, even when away.
• Let faucets drip during deep freezes to keep water moving.
• Know your main shutoff valve location—quick action can save thousands in water damage.

Insurance Tip: Most homeowners policies cover the water damage caused by a burst pipe—but not the cost to replace the pipe itself. But any way you look at it, prevention is always cheaper than cleanup.

2. Service Heating Systems and Chimneys
Before temperatures plummet, schedule a professional furnace or boiler inspection. Replace filters and confirm your carbon monoxide detectors work properly.

If you have a fireplace, clean and inspect the chimney to remove creosote buildup and reduce fire risk. Many winter home fires start from neglected chimneys or space heaters left too close to flammable items.

3. Seal, Insulate, and Inspect Your Roof
Seal cracks around windows and doors to reduce drafts and energy loss. Inspect your attic insulation and make sure heat isn’t escaping through the roof.

Outside, clear gutters and replace missing shingles. Blocked gutters and heavy snow can cause ice dams—leading to roof leaks and ceiling damage, which are expensive to fix.

4. Prepare for Power Outages
Snow and ice storms frequently cause power failures across New York. Keep an emergency kit with flashlights, blankets, and nonperishable food.

If you use a generator, run it outdoors and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

5. Winterize Your Car
Driving in New York’s winter conditions demands preparation. Install winter tires for better traction. Check battery health and antifreeze levels. Replace windshield wipers and use winter fluid. Keep a winter emergency kit—jumper cables, flashlight, blanket, shovel, and ice scraper.

Smart preparation helps you stay safe and claim-free.

6. Have Scalzo, Zogby & Wittig, Inc. Review and Update Your Insurance Coverage
Winter is the perfect time to review your homeowners and auto policies. Confirm your coverage limits match the current value of your home and possessions, especially after any renovations or major purchases. Ask us about add-ons like water backup coverage, sump pump failure, or identity theft protection—common wintertime concerns.

Be Ready Before the Snow Falls
A little preparation goes a long way toward protecting your home, your car, and your peace of mind. By following these winter home safety tips, you can reduce risks and avoid common insurance claims that come with Utica, New York’s unpredictable weather.

Talk with us at Scalzo, Zogby & Wittig today to make sure your policies provide the protection you need—so you can focus on what really matters this winter: staying warm, safe, and worry-free.

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.