CONSUMER ALERT – December 16, 2024
 

Consumer Advisory: The Right Preparation Can Reduce Risk of Winter Storm Damage, Roof Leaks and Frozen Pipes

 

Wishing for a mild Connecticut winter? It’s best to be prepared for the worst to protect your home or business. Connecticut Insurance Commissioner Andrew N. Mais reminds consumers about the potential winter risks, how to prepare for them, and steps to take when filing claims if damage occurs.

Check your insurance policies before a winter storm

  • Review your home and automobile insurance coverage before the policy period begins. Understand what is covered and what is not.
  • Evaluate whether you have the appropriate level of coverage and adequate liability limits.
  • Document your possessions with the CID’s home inventory checklist or use the Home Inventory App by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
  • Consider downloading your insurance carrier’s mobile app to your phone or other device.
  • Store your insurance policy information in a safe and easily accessible place.

Potential risks

  • Heavy snow and ice accumulation can lead to roof collapses or cause tree limbs to break off and fall onto houses and parked vehicles
  • Pipes can freeze in extreme temperatures
  • Ice dams occur when heavy snow melts and then refreezes due to inadequate attic insulation, causing interior water damage

Protect from Hail, Ice and Snow

  • Keep drains, gutters, and downspouts free of debris to promote proper flow
  • Relocate heat sources away from open attic areas directly beneath the roof
  • Insulate and seal attic penetrations, such as vents
  • Install heating cables on eaves, gutters, and downspouts, or around flat roofs. This creates a channel to allow water to drain safely.
  • To reduce the chance of pipes freezing, detach garden hoses from your home and irrigation systems during below-freezing temperatures, leave the faucet running with a slight drip, and open cabinet doors under sinks.

If Your Property is Damaged

  • Reach out to your insurer as soon as possible to report any damage to your home or automobile.
  • Document damage and take clear photos.
  • Ensure steps are taken to prevent further damage, but DO NOT make permanent repairs until your insurer has inspected the property.
  • Keep a detailed record of all interactions and conversations with your insurer.

Remember: The Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) is here to help. Contact the CID if you have difficulty reaching your insurer, have a claims dispute or have questions on any insurance-related topic.

You can reach us by phone at 860-297-3900, by email insurance@ct.gov, or through our website.

 
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