Protect your home before winter with these easy tips

As the leaves change and the air cools, fall is the perfect time to give your home a little extra attention. Seasonal maintenance isn’t just about keeping your house looking nice, it can also help you avoid costly home insurance claims once winter arrives. Things like home and yard cleanup also get you ready for the months ahead, making your spring cleanup much easier than if you skip these tasks.

Here is a helpful checklist to get your home cleaned up and ready for winter!

1. Cleaning out your gutters

Summer storms, falling leaves and other debris can clog gutters. Not only is this risky for water overflowing, but it can also lead to dangerous ice dams or damage to your roof, siding and foundation.

When doing this task, remember to: 

  • Clear gutters and downspouts at least once in the fall
  • Double check to make sure water drains away from your home’s foundation
  • Consider installing gutter guards if your yard has lots of trees that lead to extra leaves or debris

Insurance Tip: Water damage caused by poor maintenance may not be covered by your standard homeowners insurance. Proactively doing this maintenance can ensure that any claims you have later on won’t be denied.

 

2. Inspect the roof

Your roof takes the brunt of summer and fall storms, plus heavy winter snow later on. Any small issues you notice now can lead to larger problems later on, so fixing them before they become more costly is the right idea.


How to check your roof: 

  • Look for missing, loose, or curled shingles
  • Check flashing around chimneys and vents for gaps
  • Schedule professional repairs if you spot damage

Insurance Tip: While you’re up there checking your roof, take photos so you have a baseline of what things look like before winter. If you need to file a claim later, having “before” pictures can really speed up the process.

 

3. Sealing gaps and cracks

Cold air sneaking into your home can be costly as you heat your home. Doing maintenance and checking seals each year can save you frustration and money.

  • Seal around windows and doors with caulk or weather stripping
  • Check attic insulation for weak spots
  • Inspect your fireplace or chimney for cracks before lighting the first fire

4. Service heating systems

A sudden furnace breakdown in January can be both dangerous and expensive. Plus, fires caused by poorly maintained heating equipment are a common claim in winter. There are a few ways to help you avoid these scenarios:

  • Have your furnace serviced by a professional each fall
  • Replace filters regularly
  • If you use space heaters, plug them directly into outlets (not extension cords) and keep them away from flammable items

5. Trim tree branches and yard cleanup

Windy fall storms and early snow can both cause tree damage and debris. It’s a good idea to clean up your outdoor spaces before heavy snow comes. When getting the yard ready for winter, be sure to: 

  • Trim dead or overhanging limbs near your roof, windows, and power lines
  • Rake leaves and clear debris to prevent slippery walkways
  • Secure outdoor furniture and decorations before strong winds arrive

6. Get ready for freezing temps

Frozen pipes can easily burst, causing expensive water damage. Before the weather cools off to freezing temperatures, check around your home and:

  • Disconnect and store garden hoses
  • Drain outdoor faucets or install frost-proof covers
  • Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like garages or basements

Why maintenance matters

A little fall maintenance now can save you from big headaches and costly claims this winter. While insurance coverage can help you in these cases, prevention in just a few steps saves you from the inconvenience. 

Looking for homeowners insurance coverage? Contact us today to get quoted!