It’s that time of the year when the Nor’easters of Massachusetts and surrounding states start grudgingly to give up ground to spring thaws—and that means it’s also time to assess the New England winter damage to your home. Some are dramatic and sudden, such as fallen trees and ice dams, others might not be apparent unless you’re looking for them or after the thaw happens. Below are common winter issues with homes, how to deal with them, and how homeowners insurance helps.

Common Types of Winter Damage for Homes

New England storms can bring all sorts of problems to your doorstep—and not just in the form of multiple feet of snow. Wind, freezing temps, and even quick thaws can all lead to damage of your home.

• Winter Storm Damage: Nor’easters bring all sorts of winter weather to your home. Not just snow but high winds, freezing rain, and normal rain. Before and after a storm, it’s important to inspect your home for any risks and damage that has been done.
• Frozen Pipes: Anywhere that’s unheated and has water pipes is at risk for freezing and then bursting. When temperatures start to drop, make sure outside pipes are drained, unheated spaces have insulation, and the thermostat stays on if you’re going away.
• Ice Dams: Caused when snow forms on the roof and is melted by radiating heat from your home, ice dams can trap water and force it into your home, causing massive water damage. Keep an eye on your roof and make sure attics are insulated or left unheated.
• Snowmelts & Flooding: Of course, freezing temperatures aren’t the only things to worry about. As spring comes and temperatures rise, all that snow is going to melt. Snowmelts, especially those near basement windows, can cause flooding if not dealt with immediately.

How Homeowners Insurance Helps New England Homes

Of course, preparation and vigilance aren’t the only tools in your homeowner’s toolbox—a great homeowners insurance policy is as well. It’s important you understand the coverages you have, their payout limits, and which situations they do and do not cover. That’s why you should partner with the right insurance agency to find your right homeowners insurance. Why would you work with a company based outside of New England with its cookie-cutter policies?

At the Safeside Insurance Agency, our goal is to customize your insurance—including home, auto, renters, business, and more—to fit your unique circumstances. For New England Winters, this means your home, location, and risks. We’ve been weathering the winters here in Worcester County and greater Massachusetts for over 30 years, helping individuals, families, students, and small businesses in the community find better protection and peace of mind. Contact us today to get started or jump right to getting a quote!