Preparing Your Home for the Long Winter Ahead and Coverage

Winter in Pennsylvania and the Greater Philadelphia region can be beautiful, but it can also be unforgiving. Heavy snow, ice storms, freezing temperatures, high winds, and unexpected weather swings can take a toll on your home if you aren’t prepared. Whether you live in Newtown, Bensalem, Southampton, Yardley, Langhorne, Richboro, Holland, or anywhere in Bucks County, Montgomery County, or the Greater Philadelphia Area, taking proactive steps now can prevent costly damage later. 

Just as important as preparing your property is ensuring you have the right homeowners insurance in place. Leber Insurance Group is the premier Home Owners Insurance Broker in this region, helping families secure the protection they need before winter weather strikes. 

Here’s what every homeowner should know about preparing for the long winter ahead, and the coverages that help keep your home safe. 

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Heating System

Before temperatures drop, schedule a professional inspection of your heating system. Whether you use natural gas, oil, electric, or a heat pump, routine maintenance reduces the risk of breakdowns and potential fire hazards. 

Why it matters for insurance:
Many winter fire claims stem from malfunctioning heating systems. While homeowners insurance typically covers accidental fires, insurers expect systems to be maintained properly. Proper upkeep may prevent claim denials and keep you in compliance with your policy requirements. 

2. Protect Your Pipes From Freezing

    

Frozen pipes are one of the most common, and most expensive, winter home disasters. When water inside a pipe freezes, it expands, causing the pipe to burst and potentially flood your home. 

Prevention tips: 

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas (garages, basements, attics). 

• Keep your home at a consistent temperature. 

• Let faucets drip during deep freezes. 

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm airflow. 

Insurance insight:
Most homeowners policies cover sudden water damage from burst pipes. However, they do NOT cover damage caused by neglect or lack of heat. Ensuring your home is properly maintained is essential for full protection. 

3. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters are a recipe for ice dams, one of winter’s biggest threats to roofs in our region. When water freezes at the edge of the roof, it can seep under shingles and into your home. 

Insurance tip:
Damage caused by ice dams is often covered, but insurers will look for signs of proper home maintenance. Routine gutter cleaning helps prevent claims and added headaches. 

4. Winterize Your Roof and Check for Weak Spots

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against snow and ice. Before winter, look for missing shingles, soft spots, lifted flashing, or any other signs of deterioration. 

Why coverage matters:
Homeowners policies typically cover roof damage from snow, ice, wind, and fallen trees—but they may not cover damage due to wear and tear. Addressing issues now protects your home and your wallet. 

5. Seal Windows, Doors, and Drafty Areas

Cold air isn’t just uncomfortable, it forces your heating system to work harder, increasing winter utility bills. Use weatherstripping, caulking, or insulation film to seal gaps around windows and doors. 

Insurance connection:
Proper winterproofing can help prevent frozen pipes and moisture buildup, both of which could lead to insurance claims. 

6. Prepare Your Outdoor Areas

Winter weather can be rough on patios, decks, and outdoor structures. 

Checklist: 

• Store or cover patio furniture. 

• Drain outdoor hoses and shut off exterior spigots. 

• Secure loose items that could be blown around in strong winds. 

• Trim branches that may break during ice storms. 

Insurance considerations:
Your homeowners policy typically covers storm damage, but taking proactive steps can reduce your risk and protect your policy rates.  

7. Make Sure Your Homeowners Insurance Is Winter-Ready

Even the best winter preparation can’t stop every unexpected event. That’s why reviewing your homeowners insurance before the cold weather hits is essential. 

Here are key coverages you should confirm with Leber Insurance Group, the premier Home Owners insurance broker serving Newtown, Bensalem, Southampton, Yardley, Langhorne, Richboro, Holland, Bucks County, Montgomery County, and the Greater Philadelphia Area: 

✔ Dwelling Coverage 

Protects the structure of your home from covered winter-related hazards like wind, ice, snow, and falling trees. 

✔ Personal Property Coverage 

Covers your belongings if they’re damaged by a covered claim—especially important after pipe bursts or winter fires. 

✔ Loss of Use / Additional Living Expenses 

If damage forces you out of your home during repairs, this coverage pays for temporary housing and related expenses. 

✔ Water Backup Coverage 

Ice, snowmelt, and heavy rain can overwhelm drains and sump pumps. This optional endorsement is crucial for winter and early spring. 

✔ Personal Liability 

Icy walkways can increase slip-and-fall risks. Liability protection covers medical bills and legal costs if someone is injured on your property.  

Prepare Now, Save Later 

Winter can be unpredictable, but your protection shouldn’t be. Taking the right steps now will safeguard your home and give you peace of mind all season long. And when it comes to insurance protection, Leber Insurance Group is the trusted expert homeowners across Bucks County, Montgomery County, and the Greater Philadelphia Area rely on. 

Whether you need a new policy, better coverage, or a second opinion, our team is here to help you prepare with confidence. 

Contact Leber Insurance Group today to schedule your free insurance review and Quote to see how much you could save on your auto insurance. Let us help you drive with confidence knowing you’re protected by the best coverage at the best rate possible.  

Leber Insurance Group: your trusted partner for Auto Insurance in Newtown, PA, and beyond. 

More ways to contact: call 267-291-7925, email info@leberinsurancegroup.com or click to Contact Us!