Winter Storm Season in Connecticut: Important Homeowners Insurance Considerations 

Preparing for winter often involves more than seasonal home maintenance. Homeowners in Stratford, CT may also benefit from reviewing their insurance coverage to better understand how their policy responds to common cold-weather risks. AJ Gambardella Associates, LLC can help you explore your coverage options.

Common Winter Weather Risks in Connecticut

Severe winter weather can lead to common insurance claims throughout the state. Homeowners in Fairfield, Milford, Shelton and Stratford can review their policies before winter begins to confirm coverage for these risks:

• Frozen pipes: When temperatures plummet, water in poorly insulated pipes can freeze and expand, causing pipes to burst and leading to significant water damage.
• Ice dams: These occur when snow melts on your roof and refreezes at the eaves, preventing drainage. This can force water under your shingles and into your home’s walls or ceilings.
• Weight of snow and ice: Heavy accumulation from a single storm can lead to roof collapses or structural damage, particularly on older homes or flat-roofed additions.
• Heating failures: If your primary heating system fails during a freeze, the resulting damage to your home’s interior may be a major concern.

Addressing Coastal and Wind Risks

Coastal winter conditions can cause substantial property damage, necessitating specialized policy terms. Homeowners can review how their current policies address the following:

• Percentage deductibles: Policies in Stratford’s shoreline areas may require a 1% to 5% deductible for certain types of wind damage, such as that arising from named storms, rather than the standard deductible.
• Tidal inundation exclusions: Standard property coverage excludes rising ocean water, so repairs for storm-surge damage may require dedicated flood insurance.
• Roof and siding damage: Sustained winter gales can compromise exterior building materials, allowing water to leak into living spaces.
• Negligence or lack of maintenance: Although incidents like burst pipes may be covered, claims could be denied if insurers find that pipes were not properly insulated or a home was not adequately heated to limit the chances of an incident.

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Contact AJ Gambardella Associates, LLC today to explore your homeowners insurance options and request a free custom quote.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.