INDUSTRY INSIGHT
HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE
SPONSORED CONTENT
Steps Homeowners Should Take
to Winterize Their Homes and
Prevent Insurance Claims
W
hen they prepare for the arrival of winter weather,
most people think about things such as snow tires
or other items for their cars. Many people do not
think about preparing their homes for the winter. In
addition to snow tires and anti-freeze for the vehicles, it is important
to winterize the home. If it is not properly prepared, a home may
become the subject of a liability claim. There are several steps to take
to winterize a home properly.
Insurance Checklist for Winter
If a home was recently updated or had renovations, it may not
be sufficiently insured. It is important to keep insurance coverage
updated in accordance with the value of the home and any added
improvements. People with vacation properties should also consider
whether their current coverage is adequate. For those who own
snowmobiles, additional coverage may be needed. (Most people do
not know this, but high-end snowmobiles often require coverage
beyond what homeowners already have.) Personal property
endorsements for expensive jewelry, equipment or other items
should also be updated. For those who have children in college and
are funding part of their education, it is important to think about
liability coverage for living accommodations.
good to install to keep debris from entering. Look at trees and shrubs
in the yard. If branches are hanging over the home, they should
be trimmed. The same goes for shrubbery that may be blocking
walkways.
Inspect the insulation in basements, crawl spaces and attics. If heat
can escape too easily, it will cause snow and ice to melt quickly. When
the moisture melts, it can seep into the roof or walls and cause severe
damage or collapse. If the insulation is sufficient, it should prevent
pipes from freezing and bursting. However, it may be necessary to
wrap pipes with heating tape in garages or other buildings with less
insulation. Indoor temperature should be set to at least 65 degrees
during the winter months. If the temperature drops below this
point, pipes could freeze. It is important to know where the shutoff
valves are for plumbing features. If pipes do freeze, homeowners
must turn off the water as quickly as possible to prevent a burst. This
is especially important for vacation homes that will remain vacant
during the winter.
Overall, the important idea to remember about winterizing homes
is that preventing problems before they occur is the best way to avoid
insurance claims. To learn more about reviewing coverage or adding
more to an existing policy, discuss concerns with an agent.
Home Checklist for Winter
Before turning on any heating systems, be sure to replace or
clean heating filters. Ensure that any heating units are professionally
serviced and inspected. People who do not have smoke alarms or
carbon monoxide alarms should install them. All doors and windows
should be inspected, and cracked glass should be replaced. Some
windows may also need to be sealed. The sidewalk in front of the
home should be inspected for any dangerous cracks. To minimize
the risk of falls, hand rails on outdoor stairs should be checked and
repaired if necessary. It is especially important to do this if people
come to the house often, because falls are a common source of
liability claims against homeowners.
Homeowners should check their snow removal equipment to
ensure that it is in good working order. If using outside help, be sure
to hire a reputable person or company in advance. Any acorns, leaves,
sticks or debris should be removed from gutters before the first freeze
of winter. This will allow melted snow and ice to drain properly so
water does not seep into the roof or walls. Gutter guards are also
Cusumano Insurance, a local family-owned business, has been serving the Pittsburgh area
since 1958. The agency represents several insurance companies offering various options
for your personal and business insurance needs. Its experienced staff are creative problem
solvers who help find the suitable insurance companies, products and discounts to meet
your specific needs. Give them a call today for a free insurance review.
This Industry Insight was provided by:
Joann
Cusumano
Sciulli, AAI
Agency
Principal
Rosann
Cusumano
Elinsky, AAI,
LUTCF
Agency Principal
Call now for your FREE quote!
Cusumano Insurance Agency, Inc.
178 Clairton Blvd
Pittsburgh, PA 15236-3802
412-655-4432
www.cusumanoinsurance.com
Cusumano Insurance Agency, Inc. • 178 Clairton Blvd • Pleasant Hills, PA 15236
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS
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WINTER 2018
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