Helpful Ways For Clients To Protect Their Homes In Winter

It's December 1st and winter is upon us! In fact, many U.S. states have already seen snow which means prep on homes and properties in those parts of the country should be underway soon, if not by now. As an agent, one helpful thing you can do is make your clients aware of the steps they can take to protect their homes from common winter mishaps that can happen both inside and outside, leading to costly claims.

With homes and/or commercial property likely being your client's most costly assets, providing guidelines and info on prepping them for the elements will be greatly appreciated, especially in the event of a storm or subzero temps. Fall and early winter are the best times for clients to begin their prep so feel free to pass this info along with your offer to answer questions and help out however possible.

ROOF CHECK
Clients should be aware of any damage to their roof or gutters leading into the winter season. Whether they could be susceptible to snow, heavy winds or rain, they'll want to make sure everything is free from potential flood damage and clogging. Make sure leaks and cracks are fixed and windows and chimneys are safely sealed.

PUT IT AWAY
Pack up and put away any seasonal furniture or electronics that may be outdoors and in use during the warmer weather, like grills, outdoor televisions or lawn furniture. The rain, wind and cold temps can cause unforeseen damage to these expensive pieces that you won't want to have to replace.

PREP FOR DEEP FREEZE
Frozen pipes, swimming pools, irrigation systems and outdoor faucets can pose major water damage threats to homeowners should they burst. Clients should be prepared to keep their thermostats at a temperature of at least 55 Fahrenheit and to leave faucets dripping to keep pipes from freezing.

YARD CLEAN UP
Trees on homeowner property should be trimmed, by professionals preferably, before heavy winds and snow or ice can collect, weigh down and  weaken branches causing them to break, potentially creating damage to homes or power lines near the home. 

SECOND HOMES NEED LOVE TOO
If you have a client who owns vacation property or if they're responsible for property they don't live in year round, they'll want to arrange for someone to check in on the property regularly to make sure there's no damage that's going unnoticed. If a pipe bursts, a roof leaks or a branch breaks onto the roof, the longer it sits, the more damage it causes.

DON'T HATE - INSULATE!
Having an insulation company do a walk-through to inspect that a home is properly insulated for winter can save homeowner's a lot of money on their heating and oil bills and prevent snow on the roof from melting which can cause leaks in the roof. 

Passing along helpful tips like these could save your clients a lot of money in claims and damages. Showing them that you're looking out for them ahead of the fact and that you'll be there for them if they need you will show them that they chose the right agent to do business with.

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