The following checklist can help prepare you for the winter season:

  1. Water Valve Maintenance. Confirm that all water shutoff devices, low-temperature sensors, and/or water detection devices are in good working order. Confirm that all family members and domestic staff know the location of water shutoff valves. Be sure valves are clearly marked for easy identification in the event of a pipe burst or freeze.
  2. Winterize Your Plumbing. Contact your maintenance professional to winterize any/all plumbing that may be susceptible to the winter elements (e.g., outside water faucets, garden hose connections, pools, spas, hot tubs, fountains, landscape irrigation, unheated pool houses/cabanas, etc.)
  3. Temperature Control. Adjust your thermostats to ensure that heat is maintained within the home, especially in your secondary or seasonal residences. Pay attention to weather forecasts in your area, especially if temperatures are expected to be below normal, and take steps to maintain heat. If freezing weather spans several days, set your thermostat no lower than 60 degrees.
  4. Make a Plan. Put a proactive snow/ice management plan in place to reduce the likelihood of slips or falls on your property.
  5. Be Proactive. Prune trees to avoid falling limbs due to the weight of ice or snow. Inspect all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure that they are in good working order and contain new batteries. Always double-check the quantity and location of each type of detector so they are compliant with expert recommendations.
  6. Fire Fight. Confirm the number of fire extinguishers in the home and ensure that all family members are aware of their locations.
  7. Heat Systems Maintenance. Schedule a service call for your heating system to ensure all mechanicals are in good working order.
  8. Fuel Service. Confirm with your fuel service provider that oil, propane or other fuel sources will be delivered in accordance with the terms of your contract. Also, be sure delivery vehicles have clear access to your fuel port (e.g., snow and ice removal, gate access, etc.).
  9. Fireplace Safety. Contact a certified professional to inspect and clean your fireplaces and chimneys to prevent smoke and/or fire-related damage.
  10. Dryer Check-in. Always clean the clothes dryer lint trap after every use, as well as any lint buildup in the dryer’s drum, exhaust duct and the area around it.
  11. Exterior Plumbing Maintenance. Ensure that gutters, downspouts and other exterior plumbing are clear from debris, connected properly and draining water away from the home. Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris to help avoid ice dams from forming, constricting water flow and causing water damage.
  12. Sump Pump. Check your sump pump to confirm that it’s in good working order.
  13. Roof Conditions. Check your roof for loose, damaged or missing shingles. Call a licensed roofing contractor to inspect and repair before the first snow. Check your window seals for leaks. If the eaves have stains, that also can indicate a leak.
  14. Window Preparation. Ensure all exterior windows and doors have weather stripping and seals in good condition. Replace cracked or worn stripping and seals, which can cause air leaks and contribute up to 40% of a home’s heating – and cooling –
  15. Vehicle Check. Get your vehicles inspected and serviced prior to winter’s arrival as wet and slippery road conditions increase stopping distances, reduce traction and impact visibility.

For an additional resource, view our Winter Weather Preparation Checklist.

Contact a HUB Private Client Risk Advisor to learn more about how to protect your home from winter weather.