Winter is Here: Is Your Home (and Wallet) Ready?
Winter weather has arrived, and it doesn’t care if you’re ready or not. Lately, we’ve seen a “perfect storm” in the insurance world: wild weather hitting regions that aren’t used to it, and a significant rise in the severity of claims. Why is this happening? It’s a mix of lack of preparation and the skyrocketing cost of materials and labor. When a claim happens today, it costs more to fix than it did three years ago—which ultimately impacts everyone’s premiums.
At MLL Insurance we believe education is the best insurance. Here are the most common three winter claims we see and exactly how you can avoid them:
1. The Silent Threat: Ice Dams
When snow on your roof melts during the day and refreezes at the eaves at night, it creates a “dam” that forces water under your shingles and into your walls.
- The Fix: Ensure your attic has proper insulation and ventilation to keep the roof temperature consistent.
- Maintenance: Keep gutters clear of debris and use a roof rake to safely remove heavy snow buildup from the edges of your roof. Don’t chisel the ice away because you may cause damage to your shingles.
2. The Messy Disaster: Frozen Pipes
A burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in water damage in mere minutes.
- The Golden Rule: Never let your thermostat drop below 55°F (13°C), even if you’re trying to save on heating bills.
- The Storm Hack: If a major freeze or power outage is predicted, bump your heat up a few degrees early to “pre-heat” the thermal mass of your home.
- Pro Tip: Check your thermostat batteries today! If they die while you’re away, your furnace won’t kick on, and your pipes won’t stand a chance.
3. The Liability Risk: Slips and Falls
As a homeowner, you are responsible for the safety of anyone stepping onto your property—from the mail carrier to your neighbors.
- The Fix: Keep sidewalks and driveways shoveled clear.
- Don’t Forget Salt: Ice is often invisible. Generously salt your walkways and driveways to prevent thin sheets of ice from forming. If ice is already there, salt it immediately to provide traction and melting power.
Going away for the holidays? Don’t leave your home to fend for itself. If you’ll be gone for more than 48 hours, have a trusted friend or neighbor check inside the house to ensure the heat is on and no leaks have started. Have them check your sump pump and also under your sinks in your home for leaks.
Stay warm, stay safe, and let’s keep those claims at bay this season!
