How to reduce Homeowner rates this winter
The Christmas season is in full swing and that brings the onset of winter, with its colder weather, severe storms, and home insurance claims. Did you know that according to the Insurance Information Institute (iii.org) winter storms were the cause of over $15 billion in insured losses in 2021? These losses were a direct result of severe snow, ice, freezing, and flooding, which can cause water damage from burst pipes. The iii.org claims that the winter storm in February 2021 was the biggest contributing factor for the majority of the $15 billion loss. 2021 was an exceptionally bad winter compared to 2020 when there were just over $1 billion in losses from winter storms. - source iii.org
Damage to your home as a result of water damage can be costly to repair, which is where your home insurance can help. But be careful. When you make a home insurance claim your next year’s premium will probably increase, so if there are any small repairs or ways to prevent damage you should look at these first before making an insurance claim.
We’ve put together a list of common questions and tips to reduce your homeowner’s insurance this winter.
Common Winter Home Insurance Claims
Water Damage
According to the wsj.com, damage from collapsed roofs and burst pipes - which causes water to destroy the flooring, walls, appliances, and personal items, was expected to be $18 billion in 2021. If you live in the colder states it would be a reasonable assumption to say that you are more likely to suffer these types of losses after a severe cold snap or bad winter storm.
What can you do to prevent water damage?
Before the really cold weather kicks in you could try these simple steps to protect vulnerable pipes from freezing.
Insulate any plumbing pipes that are against exterior walls or pipes in basements, garages, attics, or any areas of the home that are not heated or insulated. By protecting these high-risk pipes you help to prevent any water damage from future burst pipes.
You can leave your taps open just enough to allow a small trickle of water. By keeping water flowing through your pipes you are helping to relieve pressure inside the plumbing system if there are any freezing pipes and maintaining a run of water will help prevent the pipes from freezing.
If you have taken the above precautions but still suspect you have a frozen pipe, you should turn on your faucets to see if there is water flowing through the system. If you only have a trickle and no real flow of water you could have a blockage. At this stage, you should turn off the water supply and call your local plumber to come and inspect the pipes. If there are any cracks or burst pipes, the freezing water will stop your home from flooding so don’t try to thaw the pipes unless you are 100% certain you have no leaks.
Wind Damage
Severe weather with high wind speeds and hail showers are a major part of insurance claims made for home damage. In 2020 wind and hail damage accounted for over 45% of insurance losses according to iii.org.
How to prevent damage to your home from wind
You should aim to inspect your home at the end of summer every year, or just before the winter or storm season to allow you time to repair any loose roof tiles or fix any leaks you may have.
Walk the perimeter of your home to see if any trees or branches are in a dangerous location and need to be cut back or removed. Damage to your home from a falling tree can lead to roof damage, broken windows, or other structural issues.
Move garden furniture into the garage if possible or be sure to tie them down along with any other loose items that could be blown into your walls or windows.
Home Fires
When the cold weather takes hold we love to make it as cozy as possible by making roaring fires and lighting an array of candles. With all of these open flames, we can expect the risk of fire to increase during the winter months. Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Thanksgiving are the days when we entertain family and friends with our home cooking. So it’s no surprise that these days were the peak days for home cooking fires in 2018, with Christmas tree fires resulting in over $10 million of property damage between 2014 and 2018, and an average of 2 deaths per fire. (source nfpa.org)
How to prevent house fires in winter
Never leave an open flame unattended. If you have a fire guard make sure you use it when you leave the room. Never leave the house with a fire burning, even with the fire guard in place.
Blow out candles if you are feeling tired. If you fall asleep with candles lighting or a roaring fire you are increasing the risk of damage or loss of life.
Before you decorate your Christmas tree with lights be sure to check the electrical connections and cables for any damage. Electrical malfunctions were factors in 31% of Christmas tree fires. (nfpa.org)
Personal Injury
There are many ways you can be seriously injured during the dark, cold winter months. From something as simple as slipping on ice outside your home on the driveway or sidewalk to falling snow and ice from your roof or overhanging trees. In most cases, your homeowners insurance policy should cover the expense of doctor visits and other medical costs so make sure that you document the cause of injury and keep them until any claims have been settled.
How to help prevent personal injury in winter
Keep your driveway free from ice and snow during the colder months. A daily dusting of salt after you remove the heavy snow deposits should help keep your sidewalk and driveway clear.
If your attic isn’t insulated it will use the warm air from your house to melt the snow on your roof. This may sound good but when the snow melts too quickly it turns to water and then refreezes creating icicles or ice blocks, either on your roof or the ground below. If these slide off your roof they can cause serious injury.
Consider buying a pair of snow grips to slip over your footwear to give you more traction in slippery conditions. These are available from most retailers and cost between $15 and $30.
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