Snowstorms and freezing temperatures may not be the norm in California, but it doesn’t mean it can’t happen. In fact, the Golden State experienced severe winter storms in 2023, with record-breaking snowfall, heavy rains, and widespread power outages that caught many residents off guard. As a new homeowner, you need to be prepared for whatever winter throws your way — even if it’s not what you’d expect from sunny California. Luckily, these nine winter insurance tips can help protect your home from the unexpected.
1. Check for Discounts on Winter Home Safety Upgrades
Check with your insurance provider to see if you’re eligible for discounts on winter home safety upgrades. Installing features like storm shutters, backup generators, or even updating your plumbing and electrical systems could make your home safer during the winter months — and save you money on your premiums.
While you’re at it, consider bundling your homeowners insurance with your California car insurance. Many companies offer discounts when you bundle policies, and you could save even more by getting California car insurance quotes to find the best deal. This way, you can secure both cheap car insurance in California and affordable homeowners insurance.
2. Understand Earthquakes and Flood Insurance Requirements
Many new homeowners might not realize that standard home insurance policies don’t cover earthquakes and floods — two natural events that are particularly prominent in California. Earthquake and flood insurance may not be required, but they’re worth considering if you live in high-risk areas. Earthquakes can strike without warning, while heavy rains or melted snow can lead to mudslides and flooding. Without the right coverage, you could be left shouldering the cost of repairs on your own.
3. Prepare for Wildfires Even in Winter Months
You might associate wildfires with the scorching summer months, but in California, the threat of wildfire can persist well into winter. Dry conditions and strong winds, especially in Southern California, can create the perfect conditions for wildfires to spread.
Even during the winter, you should keep your property clear of brush, leaves, and other debris that could fuel a fire. Also, ensure that your homeowners insurance policy covers wildfire damage, and if you’ve made any improvements to protect your property — like installing fire-resistant landscaping — check if your policy offers discounts for these safety upgrades.
4. Inspect Your Roof and Gutter for Winter Storm Protection
Winter storms may not be the norm in California, but they do happen — e.g., the California 2023 winter storms. When those heavy rains roll in, your roof and gutters are on the front lines. If they’re not in great shape, it can lead to big problems like leaks and water damage.
Take a look at your roof to spot any missing shingles or weak areas where water might sneak in. It’s also a good idea to clear out your gutters so water flows away from your home instead of pooling on the roof or around the foundation, which can lead to costly repairs.
5. Evaluate Your Personal Property Coverage for Winter Equipment
While California winters don’t typically call for snowblowers or heavy-duty snow tires, you probably still have some valuable outdoor gear, like surfboards, bikes, or camping equipment, that you store during the colder months. It’s a good idea to take a quick look at your insurance policy to see if it covers damage or theft of items stored outside or in your garage.
If you’re into winter sports and have invested in equipment like skis or snowboards for those mountain getaways, make sure your personal property coverage has you covered in case anything gets damaged or stolen.
6. Review Liability Coverage for Winter Accidents on Your Property
California winters bring rain, and with rain comes slippery walkways. The last thing you want is for a visitor to slip on your property and file a liability claim against you. Make sure your homeowners insurance includes adequate liability coverage in case someone gets injured on your property during the winter months.
7. Protect Your Home from Power Outages and Their Consequences
Even in California, winter storms can occasionally knock out the power, leaving you with spoiled food or damaged electronics. In more serious cases, a long outage could even lead to bigger problems — like frozen pipes if your heating system shuts down, which can cause some pricey repairs.
Many homeowners insurance policies cover losses related to power outages, but only if the cause is something your policy lists. Make sure you review the specifics of your plan to ensure you’re covered. You may also want to invest in a backup generator because it could qualify you for discounts on your insurance.
8. Document Your Belongings for Potential Winter Storm Claims
As a new homeowner, one of the smartest things you can do is document your belongings. If a winter storm hits and you face damage — whether it’s from heavy rains or a leaky roof — being able to prove the value of your possessions makes filing an insurance claim so much easier.
Grab your phone and snap some photos of your home, inside and out, and make a list of any high-value items that could be at risk. Then, store everything in a safe spot (like cloud storage) so you’re ready if the unexpected happens. It’s a quick step that could save you a lot of trouble down the road.
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9. Ensure Proper Maintenance to Avoid Claim Denials
Insurance companies often deny claims if they find the damage was due to neglect, so it’s a good idea to tackle those small home repairs before winter sets in. Check your heating system, fix any roof leaks, and handle any other minor issues now. By keeping everything in good shape, you’re setting yourself up for an easier, smoother process if you need to file a claim after a winter storm.
With these nine insurance tips, you can prepare for winter in California and keep your home safe from unexpected weather.
