Now that fall is well underway and winter weather is just around the corner, it's time to give your home and yard some last-minute TLC before the first snowfall. Accredited Insurance, the most trusted insurance agency in Omaha, NE, offers some important tips to help you prepare for the seasons. By following the suggestions below, you can head off potential problems and possibly save yourself the hassle and expense of a home insurance claim.

Important Tips to Prepare Your Home for Winter

1. Remove Dead Trees & Branches

Ice and snow accumulation can topple weakened trees and cause dead branches to fall. The potential for injuries and property damage, in this case, is significant, so to be safe, have any compromised trees and branches removed before winter. 

2. Schedule a Roof Inspection

To make sure your roof is in good shape and can withstand the coming snowfall and freezing rain, schedule an inspection with a reputable roofing contractor. Have them check for potential leaks, damaged shingles, missing flashing, and weakness in the support structure. This will help you avoid a possible disaster, such as a collapse, and subsequent home insurance claim.

3. Clean Gutters

By swiftly and efficiently removing melting snow from your roof, your gutters are the first line of defense against ice dams, which can hurt your roof and result in water damage to your home. However, they won’t be able to do this if they aren’t cleared of leaves and other debris in the fall.

4. Insulate Pipes

To prevent freezing and bursting pipes, insulate any plumbing that runs along exterior walls or through unheated areas of your home, such as a cellar or garage. Even pipes under sinks can freeze if the temperature drops low enough since cupboard doors prevent heat from warming them. 

Family-owned and -operated for more than 25 years, Accredited Insurance is one of the leading insurance agencies in Omaha, NE. Their expert agents can help you protect yourself financially with a home insurance policy tailored to your needs and budget.  Visit their website to request a quote, or call (402) 334-1780 to discuss your options with a friendly professional.