Fall is the perfect time for football, hot apple cider … and preparing your house for winter and reviewing your homeowners insurance policy. Take some time this autumn to look over your home to make sure it is winter-ready, so you can sit back and enjoy hot chocolate and your winter hobbies with peace of mind later. We can help.

Once your leaves have finished falling, clean out your gutters. Gutters blocked with dead leaves can cause ice dams during the winter. While you’re up on that ladder, check out your gutters—make sure there aren’t any leaks or misaligned pipes, and make sure the downspouts carry water away from your house’s foundation. Bring outdoor furniture and hoses inside, and make sure that your outdoor faucets are frost-free or completely shut off. If your home is prone to icicles or dams, consider installing electric cables to melt accumulated snow and ice.

As the wind begins to pick up outside, check to make sure you don’t have any drafts. Use caulk and door sweeps to take care of the drafty areas. Have you considered the amount of insulation in your attic? Experts recommend that you have at least 12 inches of insulation up there. Speaking of insulation, check cold spaces for exposed pipes, and make sure they are insulated properly to prevent freezing. Don’t forget your annual maintenance of your furnace and chimney and check your ductwork to make sure your vents are well-connected and insulated.

Once you’ve taken stock of your home, give our agency a call. Now is the perfect time to make sure you have the right insurance coverage in your homeowners policy—especially if your fall review revealed the need for repairs.