Winter Home Checklist: Prevent Insurance Claims in Indiana

Indiana winters can be hard on a house. Cold snaps, snow and ice cause many of the claims we see every year, and most of them start with something small. A little preparation in the fall can save you a lot of hassle later.

Outside the house

Clean your gutters so melting snow can drain away from the roof. Trim tree branches that hang over the house or driveway, since heavy snow and ice can bring them down. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor water lines if you can.

Inside the house

Have your furnace checked, replace the filter and test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Know where your main water shut-off valve is, so you can turn it off quickly if a pipe ever bursts. Keep the heat on at a reasonable level even when you travel.

If you will be away

Ask someone you trust to check on the house while you are gone. Some policies have rules about homes that are left empty for long periods, so let us know if you will be away for an extended time.

Check your coverage too

Winter is a good time to make sure your home insurance reflects what your home would cost to rebuild today, and to ask about options like water backup coverage.

Have questions? Call Lafayette Insurance at 765-474-2300 or contact us online. As an independent agency, we compare several insurance companies to find you the best coverage at the best price.