Winterizing is the process that every HOA member should undertake to make their home ready for winter. Freezing temperatures, ice, snow and wind can cause severe damage to a home.
Frozen Pipes
Plumbing may be located in the outer walls of a home so it may be exposed to colder air than what is found within the walls of the home. These exposed pipes, if not protected, can freeze or burst. Pipes can be protected by:
- Insulating unfinished areas, such as garages where pipes may be exposed.
- Draining and shutting off pipes flowing to the outside faucets.
- Leaving faucets slightly dripping
- Leaving open cabinet doors beneath sinks to expose pipes to warmer air.
- A home that is left unattended for any extended period of time needs to be checked regularly.
- Disconnecting all gardening hoses and installing covers on all outside faucets.
- Never turn of heat off in a home. Keep home thermostat at 68 degrees or higher at all times.
- Seal foundation cracks that allow in cold air.
Per the Institute for Business and Home Safety, insurance claims exceeded $4,000,000,000.00 for all insurance companies over the last decade for these particular frozen and busted pipes claims.
It is important that heat is left on in vacant homes. If damage occurs due to heat being turned off, insurance companies may deem this as negligence and refuse to pay a claim. WDMC
William Douglas Management, providing excellent management services to HOAs and condominium associations since 1980.
Copyright 2018 William Douglas Management, Inc.