[Austin, TX – Jan. 12, 2024] – As winter temperatures set in, the Insurance Council of Texas (ICT) is urging homeowners to take proactive measures to safeguard their homes and families. Being prepared for freezing temperatures to potential winter storms is crucial to minimize risks and ensure adequate insurance coverage.

Home Preparedness:

• Insulate and Weatherize: Ensure your home is properly insulated and weatherized to prevent cold air infiltration. Seal gaps around windows and doors and consider adding insulation in attics and crawl spaces.
• Protect Pipes: To prevent frozen pipes, insulate them and keep cabinets under sinks open to allow warm air circulation. In freezing weather, let faucets drip to keep water flowing.
• Heating System Maintenance: Schedule a professional inspection of your heating system to ensure it is in good working condition. Replace filters regularly and have chimneys and flues cleaned to prevent potential fire hazards.
• Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit that includes essentials such as blankets, flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and necessary medications. Keep this kit easily accessible in case of power outages or severe weather.

Insurance Coverage Tips:

• Review Homeowners Insurance: Confirm that your homeowners insurance policy provides adequate coverage for winter-related perils, including damage caused by freezing temperatures, ice dams, and snow accumulation.
• Consider Additional Coverage: In regions prone to winter storms, consider additional coverage for specific perils such as roof collapse due to the weight of snow or ice. Consult with your insurance agent to understand the available options.
• Comprehensive Coverage for Automobiles: While this is “optional,” comprehensive coverage protects you from non-accident-related damage to your automobile such as falling trees and branches, vandalism, theft, and fire. As well as weather-related events such as ice or hail damage.
• Know Your Deductibles: Familiarize yourself with your policy's deductibles and coverage limits. Understanding these details will help you make informed decisions in case of a winter-related claim.
• Document Your Property: Take inventory of your possessions and document your home's condition before winter. In the event of damage, this documentation will streamline the claims process. Whether it is written down or simply take a video and photos of each room and the exterior of your home.