Oklahoma Insurance Professionals LLC Blog |
Author
Write something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview.
 Last January, Matt and Olivia were enjoying a rare weekend away when a winter storm rolled through Oklahoma City. When they returned home, they were greeted by the aftermath—water damage from a burst pipe had soaked their hardwood floors and seeped into their walls. The couple filed an insurance claim, expecting full coverage, only to learn their homeowners insurance policy had gaps that left them responsible for thousands in repairs. Oklahoma’s winter weather may not be as harsh as northern states, but it still presents serious risks. From frozen pipes to roof damage caused by ice and snow, understanding how your home insurance policy protects you—and where you may need additional coverage—can make all the difference when winter disasters strike. How Winter Weather Can Damage Your HomeWinter storms can bring a mix of freezing temperatures, strong winds, and ice accumulation that may cause significant property damage. Here are some of the most common winter-related insurance claims and what you need to know about your homeowners insurance coverage. Frozen and Burst Pipes One of the most frequent winter claims involves frozen pipes. When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze and expand, causing pipes to burst. This can result in extensive water damage to floors, walls, and personal belongings. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover It? Most homeowners insurance policies cover damage caused by frozen pipes, but only if reasonable steps were taken to prevent the pipes from freezing. If you leave your home unheated or neglect basic winter maintenance, your claim may be denied. How to Prevent It:
Roof Damage from Ice and Snow While Oklahoma City doesn’t see heavy snowfall every year, ice storms and brief snow accumulation can still cause problems. Ice dams, which form when melting snow refreezes at the edge of your roof, can lead to leaks and structural damage. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover It? Damage from the weight of ice and snow is usually covered under standard policies, but if poor maintenance contributed to the issue, coverage might be limited. How to Prevent It:
Fires from Heating Equipment With winter comes the increased use of space heaters, fireplaces, and furnaces. Unfortunately, these heating sources are also a leading cause of house fires. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover It? Fire damage is generally covered under a homeowners policy, including damage from chimney fires and electrical issues caused by space heaters. However, insurance companies may deny claims if negligence—like leaving a space heater unattended—played a role. How to Prevent It:
Slip-and-Fall Accidents on Icy Walkways Oklahoma homeowners are responsible for maintaining safe walkways, driveways, and porches. If a guest or delivery person slips and falls on ice-covered steps, you could be held liable. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover It? Most policies include personal liability coverage, which can help pay for medical bills or legal costs if someone is injured on your property. How to Prevent It:
Wind Damage from Winter Storms Winter storms in Oklahoma often bring strong winds that can knock down trees, rip shingles from roofs, and damage fences or siding. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover It? Most homeowners insurance policies cover wind damage, but you may have a separate deductible for wind and hail depending on your policy. How to Prevent It:
Reviewing Your Homeowners Insurance Before WinterIf you’re unsure whether your policy offers enough financial protection for winter-related damage, now is the time to review your insurance coverage. Key Areas to Check:
Why Work with an Independent Insurance Agent?An insurance agent who understands Oklahoma’s winter weather risks can help you find the right homeowners insurance policy for your needs. Unlike national carriers that offer one-size-fits-all coverage, independent agents work with multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage options at competitive insurance premiums. Oklahoma Insurance Professionals: Protecting Your Home in Every Season At Oklahoma Insurance Professionals, we help homeowners across Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, and Yukon find insurance policies that protect against winter weather hazards and beyond. If you haven’t reviewed your home insurance policy recently, now is the perfect time. Contact us today for a personalized consultation to make sure you have the right coverage for your home and family.
Comments are closed.
|
Contact Us(405) 838-1818 Archives
October 2025
Categories
All
|
RSS Feed