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Did you know the land of 300 sunny days and blazing summers also has a surprise? From sleet to snow flurries, and ice storms to frosty temperatures, the winter comes with risk to Texas homeowners. Even if it only lasts a couple of days! It is a good time to review policy coverage and be sure your Texas homeowners insurance protects from winter weather risk.
Central Texas’ mild winter weather makes it comfortable for outdoor activities and allows you to explore local gems at your own pace, most often without summer crowds. The temperatures drop below freezing, 32º or colder an average number of 12 nights each year. Officially at Austin’s Camp Mabry, we have only had a couple of freezes since October. However, icy winter weather conditions can pack a punch when unprepared and often arrive in January or February. Ask your independent agent or insurance broker about ice damage, or flood insurance for overflow from a broken neighborhood water main. Your local agent can help you tailor your policy to your specific needs.
What are some common winter weather home claim hazards?
Frozen Pipes. Water expands when it freezes, and when it freezes inside pipes, those pipes tend to crack or burst. Outdoor plumbing is particularly susceptible, but indoor pipes exposed to freezing temperatures can also freeze and rupture. Insulate exposed pipes, drip faucets, and open cabinet doors.
Fallen trees. Winter wind and ice can badly damage trees, dropping large limbs or uprooting the trees altogether. While home policies generally do not often cover trees themselves, they do cover the damage caused if a tree limb falls on a covered structure – including the cost to remove a tree from your home, fence, or neighbor’s vehicle.
Falling & Slips. Ice and snow can make walkways and driveways slippery, increasing the risk of falls.
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Fire Hazards. The increased use of space heaters and fireplaces during the winter can increase the risk of house fires for homes and dwellings. Keep flammable objects away from heaters, turn off space heaters and fireplaces when you leave the room or go to bed, and have your chimney inspected and cleaned annually.
Freeze Risks. Ice dams are less common in Texas since we typically do not go days in a row below freezing-temperatures. However, ice can form when accumulated warmer parts of a roof or gutter melt and run down to the eaves, where it freezes into a barrier that blocks subsequent runoff.
Power outages: Winter storms can often knock out utility lines or power lines, leaving you without electricity and heat. Have a battery-powered radio and flashlight on hand, a working fireplace, and store food and water in case you are without power for an extended period. ERCOT’s Monthly Outlook indicates the chances of rolling blackouts in 2024 increases to 20.6% if similar weather conditions to 2021 Winter Storm Elliott occur.”
Remember, winter preparedness goes beyond your insurance policy. Regularly check your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, stock up on emergency supplies like food, water, and batteries, drip faucets and stay informed about weather alerts and advisories.
By taking proactive steps and ensuring your Texas homeowners insurance is up-to-date, you can breeze into the winter knowing your home and family are protected from the jack frost icy grip. So, grab your hot cocoa and rest assured that you are prepared for whatever winter blows your way. With the holiday rush behind us, folks get to experience the city in a more authentic way and with fewer crowds. Pick a mild winter day, get out there, and explore or snuggle up with a good movie at Alamo Drafthouse as we often do. Stay Warm, Stay Safe, Stay Covered!
Descriptions of insurance products and packages are meant to offer general ideas only, are necessarily brief, and are subject to policy provisions, limits, deductibles, exclusions, and conditions that can only be expressed in the policy itself. In the event of a conflict, the terms and conditions of your policy prevail. This information is provided solely as an insurance risk management tool. It is provided with the understanding that we are not providing advice or any other professional services. We shall have no liability to any person or entity concerning any loss or damages alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the use of this information.
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