Oklahoma Insurance Professionals LLC Blog |
Author
Write something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview.
Oklahoma Insurance Professionals LLC Blog |
Write something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview.
When Jim and his family returned to their Oklahoma City home after a weekend getaway last January, they walked into an unexpected disaster. A burst pipe had flooded the kitchen and living room, leaving water damage that stretched across their floors and walls. The cause? Frozen pipes that couldn’t handle the weekend’s freezing temperatures. While Jim’s homeowners insurance covered most of the repair costs, he couldn’t help but wonder how much trouble—and stress—he could have avoided with a few simple preparations. Winter in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas like Edmond, Norman, and Yukon can bring unpredictable weather, from freezing temperatures to ice storms and heavy snow. These conditions create risks for homeowners that, if left unchecked, can lead to costly insurance claims. Knowing what to watch for and taking preventative steps can protect your home, your wallet, and your peace of mind. 1. Burst Pipes and Water DamageBurst pipes are one of the most common winter claims, and they can wreak havoc inside your home. When water freezes in pipes, it expands, causing cracks or bursts. Once the frozen blockage thaws, the resulting flood can damage walls, floors, furniture, and even personal property. Most homeowners insurance policies cover water damage caused by a sudden pipe burst. However, if the damage occurs because you neglected to keep your home heated or maintain your plumbing, the claim might be denied. To avoid frozen pipes, keep your thermostat at least 55°F, even when you’re away. Insulate pipes in colder areas like attics, crawl spaces, and basements. Allow faucets to drip during extreme cold to keep water moving, and shut off and drain outdoor hoses and faucets before temperatures drop. 2. Roof Damage from Snow and IceHeavy snow, freezing rain, and ice buildup on your roof can cause significant damage. Ice dams, for example, form when heat from your attic melts snow, which then refreezes along the roof’s edge. This blocks water from draining properly, and the trapped water can seep into your home, damaging ceilings, walls, and insulation. Homeowners insurance usually covers water damage caused by ice dams, but it may not pay to remove the ice itself. Additionally, some policies may limit coverage for long-term damage caused by lack of maintenance. Prevent roof damage by keeping gutters and downspouts clean to allow proper drainage. Use a roof rake to remove heavy snow before it builds up. Add attic insulation to reduce heat loss that melts snow unevenly, and check your roof for any existing damage or weak spots before winter. 3. House Fires from Heating EquipmentFire risks increase in winter when homeowners rely on space heaters, fireplaces, and wood stoves for warmth. Space heaters, in particular, are a common culprit, especially when left unattended or placed near flammable materials. Fire damage caused by space heaters and fireplaces is generally covered under a standard homeowners insurance policy. However, the policy may exclude damage resulting from misuse or lack of proper maintenance. To stay safe, keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable. Never leave a space heater running when you’re not in the room. Have your chimney and fireplace inspected annually, and use a fireplace screen to contain embers and sparks. 4. Slip-and-Fall AccidentsSnow and ice can create dangerous conditions on driveways, sidewalks, and entryways. If someone slips and injures themselves on your property, you could be held liable for their medical expenses. Personal liability coverage within your homeowners insurance can help with these costs, but it’s better to prevent accidents altogether. Prevent slip-and-fall injuries by shoveling snow and applying ice melt on walkways and driveways promptly. Fix uneven pavement, loose steps, or handrails before winter sets in. Place non-slip mats at entrances to reduce the risk of slipping indoors, and ensure outdoor lighting is bright enough to help visitors see where they’re walking. 5. Tree Damage from Snow and IceSnow and ice can weigh down trees, causing branches—or entire trees—to fall. This can result in damage to your roof, fences, vehicles, or nearby power lines. Homeowners insurance typically covers damage caused by falling trees or branches, but it might not cover removal costs for trees that haven’t caused damage. To keep your trees safe, inspect them for weak branches or signs of disease. Trim overhanging branches to prevent them from falling on your property, and consider hiring a professional arborist to assess and maintain large trees. Why Oklahoma Insurance Professionals is the Best ChoiceWinter in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas can be unpredictable, but your home insurance doesn’t have to be. At Oklahoma Insurance Professionals, we understand the unique challenges homeowners face during the colder months. Frozen pipes, roof damage, or slip-and-fall claims can catch anyone off guard, but the right homeowners insurance policy provides the protection you need when unexpected events occur. As an independent insurance agency, we aren’t tied to a single insurance company. Instead, we work with multiple providers to find a homeowners insurance policy that fits your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for comprehensive protection, additional coverages, or a review of your current policy’s limits, our team has you covered. We proudly serve Oklahoma City and the surrounding suburbs, including Edmond, Norman, Yukon, and Moore. Don’t wait until winter surprises you with a costly repair bill or uncovered claim. Give us a call today to schedule a free policy review, and let’s make sure your home is ready for whatever winter has in store. With Oklahoma Insurance Professionals, you can rest easy knowing your home, your property, and your family are protected year-round. Because when it comes to insurance, you deserve coverage you can trust.
Comments are closed.
|
Contact Us(405) 838-1818 Archives
February 2025
Categories
All
|
Navigation |
Connect With UsShare This Page |
Contact UsOklahoma Insurance Professionals LLC
1624 SW 122nd St Oklahoma City, OK 73170 (405) 838-1818 Click Here to Email Us |
Location |