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Home Maintenance Mistakes That Can Void a Claim

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Home insurance is designed to protect you from sudden and accidental losses—not long-term neglect. Unfortunately, many winter claims are denied because of preventable maintenance issues.

Common Winter Maintenance Issues We See

Some of the most frequent problems include:

  • Frozen pipes due to inadequate heating
  • Ice dams caused by poor insulation or ventilation
  • Roof leaks tied to long-term wear and tear
  • Heating system failures that weren’t addressed

Insurance carriers expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to maintain their property.

Wear and Tear vs. Sudden Damage

A key factor in claim decisions is whether damage is:

  • Sudden and accidental (usually covered)
  • Gradual or due to neglect (often excluded)

For example:

  • A pipe that suddenly bursts may be covered
  • Damage caused by a pipe that slowly leaked for months may not be

How to Protect Yourself

To avoid claim issues:

  • Keep your home adequately heated
  • Insulate exposed pipes
  • Address roof and gutter issues promptly
  • Check on vacant or seasonal properties regularly

When to Call Your Agent

If you’re unsure whether a situation is claim-worthy or need guidance before a loss occurs, reach out. Preventing a problem is always better than fighting a denied claim.