Homeowners Coverage for Winter Weather Damage

Winter can present many challenges and concerns for Colorado homeowners. Snow, ice and frigid temperatures may all present significant threats with little warning. Protecting your home against the elements should naturally be a top priority.

At Legacy Insurance, we’re proud to offer guidance and help homeowners and their properties endure winter.

Types of Winter-related Home Damage and How to Limit Your Risk

Your home may have many vulnerabilities potentially exploitable by winter conditions. Consider the following common types of property damage and how you might be able to limit severity or avert them altogether:

• Roof damage—Your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home. Ice dams forming at the edge of your roof can restrict proper drainage and potentially lead to leaks and water damage. Additionally, the weight of snow may strain your roof’s integrity, potentially leading to collapses and costly repairs. Take time to clear your gutters and downspouts and remove excessive amounts of snow from your roof. Make sure any cracks or holes are repaired promptly, as water expands when freezing and can exacerbate issues.

• Burst pipes—Lower temperatures can cause far more concerns than simply putting a greater strain on your heating bill or making the outdoors less enjoyable. These conditions can cause water in your plumbing and sewer systems to freeze and expand, potentially causing pipes to burst and leading to significant water damage. Turn off water in outdoor areas and insulate pipes that may be exposed to colder temperatures.

• Fallen trees—The heavy snow and howling winds of winter can take a toll on other features of your property, including trees and their branches. Such objects may be more likely to break during this time of year and could swiftly inflict devastating damage to your home. Consider trimming problematic branches that hang over your dwelling and other structures on your property or removing trees entirely if necessary.

Understanding the Importance of Insurance

Homeowners insurance can play a critical role in financially protecting you and your property from winter-related risks. Falling objects and some types of water damage are typically covered by most standard policies.

However, if insurers deem that damage occurred due to poor maintenance or negligence, your claim could be denied. Understanding your coverage and taking steps to avert issues should be top priorities this winter.

We’re Here to Help

Contact Legacy Insurance in Colorado Springs, Colorado, today to learn more or get a free homeowners insurance quote.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.