Winter Insurance Tips: Protect Your Home, Car, and Business When Temperatures Drop

livingoodscott
Nov 11
2 min read

When winter hits Delaware, Pennsylvania or Maryland, it doesn’t just bring snowflakes and chilly mornings — it brings new risks to your home, car, and business. Frozen pipes, slick roads, and surprise power outages can cause thousands in damage if you’re not prepared. At Downes Insurance, we’re here to help you stay protected and make sure your coverage keeps you safe all season long.

Homeowners: Prevent Winter Damage Before It Starts

Frozen Pipes & Water Damage Cold snaps can turn small leaks into burst pipes fast. Check your insulation, let faucets drip during freezing temps, and know where your main water shut-off valve is If a pipe bursts, your homeowners insurance may cover the repair — but only if you’ve taken reasonable precautions.

Ice Dams & Roof Leaks Snow buildup can block roof drainage and cause leaks inside your home. Clean gutters regularly and keep attic spaces well-ventilated to prevent costly water damage claims.

Power Outages Winter storms can knock out power for hours — or even days. A backup generator can protect your pipes and electronics. Some homeowners policies may cover spoiled food or surge damage, so check your limits before winter hits.

Auto Insurance: Drive Smarter When Roads Turn Slick

Comprehensive & Collision Coverage Matter If your vehicle slides into a guardrail or is damaged by falling ice, you’ll need collision and comprehensive coverage — not just liability — to repair it.

Winter Prep Checklist:

✅ Keep tires properly inflated and consider snow tires if you live inland or up north.

✅ Top off windshield washer fluid and carry an emergency kit.

✅ Check your deductible — you might want to adjust it before the season.

Pro Tip: Adding a new winter vehicle like a truck or SUV? Make sure it’s listed on your policy before the first snowstorm.

Business Insurance: Keep Operations Running When Weather Strikes

Winter weather can hit small businesses hard — especially contractors, landscapers, delivery services, and retail shops.

Business Interruption Insurance If snow or ice shuts down your location, this coverage can replace lost income while you get back on your feet.

Commercial Auto Fleet vehicles face higher risks in icy conditions. Make sure all drivers are properly insured and that your policy includes towing or roadside assistance.

General Liability If a customer slips on ice outside your business, liability insurance helps cover medical bills and legal costs.

Umbrella Coverage: Extra Protection for the Unexpected

Winter accidents can get expensive fast. Umbrella insurance adds an extra layer of protection above your home, auto, or business policies — often for just a few dollars a month. Think of it as your safety net when the snowstorm turns into a lawsuit.

Review Your Policies Before the First Freeze

Winter is the perfect time to schedule an insurance review. At Downes Insurance, we’ll help you check for gaps, find discounts, and make sure every policy fits your needs before the weather turns rough.