As the holiday season arrives and temperatures begin to drop, Texans are getting ready for family gatherings, festive celebrations, and unexpected winter weather. While our winters are often mild, the last few years have shown that Texas can experience sudden freezes capable of damaging homes, vehicles, and other property. The good news? A little preparation, paired with the right insurance coverage, can protect your home and family all season long.
Before the winter chill sets in, take a moment to review your insurance policies and winterize your home. Doing so can help prevent costly damage and give you greater peace of mind through the holidays.
Winterize Your Home to Prevent Costly Damage
When temperatures fall below freezing, simple maintenance can make a big difference in preventing damage to your home. Burst pipes, roof leaks, and power outages can quickly turn a holiday gathering into a stressful situation, but most of these risks are preventable with a few key steps:
- Insulate exposed pipes
Pipes located in attics, garages, or exterior walls are especially vulnerable. Wrapping them in insulation or heat tape can help prevent freezing and burst lines. - Seal drafts around windows and doors
Cold air can enter through gaps, causing energy loss and strain on your heating system. Weatherstripping and caulking are affordable ways to keep your home warm. - Protect outdoor faucets
Disconnect hoses and cover outdoor spigots. If your home has a dedicated shut-off valve for exterior lines, consider turning it off and draining the pipes. - Clean gutters and check the roof
Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams and leaks. Clearing debris ensures proper drainage during winter rain or freezing conditions. - Check Christmas decorations Before installing decorations, check your wiring carefully. Keep flammable items away from wiring and open flames.Check the area for any fire hazards.
Before temperatures drop, consider reviewing your home insurance policy to ensure you are protected from winter-related damage. TWFG – Denise Davis Insurance can help you confirm that your dwelling, personal belongings, and additional structures are adequately covered.
Check Your Home or Renter’s Insurance Coverage
Take a moment to review your policy limits and deductibles, especially if you have made upgrades or purchased new valuables this year. Your insurance should reflect the true value of your home and belongings.
If you are unsure whether your coverage is current or complete, our team can help you update your policy before colder weather arrives.
Don’t Overlook Flood Insurance—Even in Winter
Winter storms in Texas can still bring heavy rain, which can lead to unexpected flooding. Since standard home insurance does not cover flood-related damage, having a separate flood policy is crucial, especially if you live near waterways or in areas prone to drainage issues.
TWFG – Denise Davis Insurance offers both NFIP flood and private flood insurance options to help ensure your home is protected year-round.
Create a Freeze Emergency Plan for Your Home and Family
When a hard freeze hits, acting quickly can help prevent severe damage. Having a winter emergency plan ensures your family knows exactly what to do if temperatures suddenly drop.
Here are a few steps every Texan should include in their freeze preparedness plan:
- Keep indoor faucets dripping
A steady drip keeps water moving through the pipes, reducing the chance of freezing. - Open cabinets under sinks
Allowing warm air to circulate around indoor plumbing helps prevent cold spots that lead to frozen pipes. - Know where your water shut-off valve is located
If a pipe bursts or you have a loss of power, shutting off your home’s water immediately can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. - Assemble a winter emergency kit
Include flashlights, blankets, bottled water, non-perishable food, portable chargers, and a first-aid kit in case of outages. - Prepare for heating interruptions
Have safe backup heating options ready, such as space heaters with automatic shut-off features. - Check on elderly or vulnerable loved ones
Those with medical needs may require additional support during severe weather. - Travel plans If you have travel plans during the winter, you will need to prepare your home in advance. Have an emergency contact locally who can advise you if the weather changes suddenly or of power outages.
Having these steps in place ensures your family stays safe, and that you can respond quickly if your home is affected by extreme cold.
Stay Protected This Holiday Season
Preparing your home for winter is one of the best ways to avoid costly surprises but having the right insurance coverage is just as important. A quick policy review can help you catch coverage gaps and strengthen your protection before colder weather hits.
At TWFG – Denise Davis Insurance, we are committed to keeping your home, family, and property safe throughout the holidays and into the new year. Our experienced agents are here to review your coverage, update your policies, and answer any questions you may have.
Contact us today to winterize your coverage and enjoy the season with confidence knowing TWFG – Denise Davis Insurance has you protected.