What Kind of Winter Mishaps Are Covered by Home Insurance?

Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also brings unique challenges for homeowners. Understanding what winter mishaps are covered by home insurance can help you prepare and avoid unexpected expenses.

The Importance of Homeowners Insurance in Winter

Homeowners insurance may help cover the following winter incidents:

• Frozen pipes—One of the most common winter issues is frozen pipes. As temperatures fall, the water inside pipes can freeze and expand, leading to bursts. Most standard home insurance policies cover the resulting damage from such burst pipes, provided you’ve taken reasonable steps to prevent freezing, such as keeping your home heated and insulating exposed pipes.
• Roof collapse from snow—Most home insurance policies include coverage for damage caused by roof collapses due to the weight of snow or ice. However, neglecting routine maintenance, such as not repairing a weakened roof, can result in denied claims.
• Power outages—Winter storms often cause power outages, which can lead to spoiled food, frozen pipes or damage to electronics from power surges. Some policies cover food spoilage caused by outages, but coverage limits are usually low. Damage to electronics may be covered if the power surge results from a covered peril.
• Slip-and-fall accidents—If someone slips on ice on your property, you could be liable for their injuries. The liability portion of your home insurance generally covers medical expenses and legal costs in such cases. However, your insurer might deny the claim if you’ve ignored your responsibility to clear ice and snow.
• Wind and hail damage—Winter storms can bring strong winds and hail, which can damage your home’s exterior. Most standard home insurance policies cover wind and hail damage, including broken windows and damaged siding.
• Additional living expenses—If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered winter mishap, your policy may cover additional living expenses, such as hotel stays and meals, while your home is being repaired.

Understanding your home insurance policy and taking preventive measures can help you navigate the challenges of winter with confidence.

Learn More

For home insurance near you, contact R.M. Cataldo Insurance Agency today.

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.