Frozen pipes don’t just burst—they break budgets. Winter weather brings real risks for landlords: frozen plumbing, icy walkways, and heating system failures. The right coverage ensures you’re not left out in the cold, but proactive prevention saves you stress and money.
Simple steps to prevent frozen pipe claims
- Thermostats at 55°+Keep heat on in all units—including vacant spaces and common areas.
- Insulate exposed pipesFocus on basements, attics, crawlspaces, garages, and exterior walls.
- Let faucets dripDuring extreme cold snaps, keep water moving to reduce freeze risk.
- Open cabinet doorsAllow warm air to reach pipes under sinks on exterior walls.
- Seal draftsWeather-strip doors and windows; close foundation vents when appropriate.
Reduce liability on icy walkways
Slips and falls create costly liability claims. Keep walkways, stairs, and parking areas clear, apply ice melt early, post caution signage when needed, and document maintenance logs with time stamps and photos. Consistency matters—especially during overnight freezes.
Heating systems: prepare, don’t panic
Schedule winter HVAC checks, change filters, and confirm emergency response contacts. If a unit loses heat, communicate quickly with tenants and take immediate steps to protect plumbing until service arrives.
Prevention protects your property; the right coverage protects your cash flow. Independence matters when it’s time to advocate a claim.
Coverage considerations for landlords
- Water damageKnow limits and exclusions for burst pipes and resulting damage.
- Loss of rentConsider coverage that replaces income during repairs.
- LiabilityEnsure adequate limits for tenant and visitor injuries.
- Equipment breakdownAsk about coverage for sudden HVAC or boiler failures.
At Deansure LLC, we help you prevent losses before they happen—and advocate for you when they do. That’s insurance with integrity.