What It Takes to Prep for Winter in Today’s World
Your complete homeowners checklist for comfort, protection, and peace of mind.
The air is crisp, your favorite blanket is back on the couch, and you can smell wood smoke drifting through the neighborhood — that can only mean one thing: winter in Western New York is right around the corner.
But before the first snowflake falls, it’s time to make sure your home is ready to take on whatever the season has in store. Because let’s face it — in today’s world, winter prep is about more than stocking up on salt and cocoa. It’s about protecting your home, your comfort, and your peace of mind.
Start with the Basics: Warmth, Water, and Safety
Our homes work hard through the winter months. A little prevention now can save you big repairs later. Here’s where to start:
1. Service your furnace or boiler.
Schedule a professional tune-up before the temperatures drop. A quick inspection helps prevent breakdowns and keeps your system running efficiently — meaning lower energy bills and a warmer home.
2. Protect your pipes.
Frozen pipes are one of winter’s most common — and costly — homeowner headaches. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Let faucets drip during extreme cold spells and know how to shut off your water quickly in case of a burst.
3. Check your insulation and seals.
Drafty doors and windows can send your heating bill soaring. Walk your home to feel for cool air, add weather stripping, and make sure your attic insulation is up to par.
4. Clean gutters and downspouts.
When snow melts and refreezes, clogged gutters can lead to dangerous ice dams and roof leaks. Keep water flowing freely now to avoid trouble later.
The Overlooked Step: Reviewing Your Homeowners Coverage
Your home isn’t just your biggest investment — it’s where your life happens. That’s why winter prep should always include reviewing your homeowners insurance.
From frozen pipes to roof damage, the risks that come with cold weather can test even the most prepared homeowner. Policies written years ago may not fully reflect your current needs — especially if you’ve renovated, added new systems, or seen rising repair costs in your area.
A quick coverage review can help ensure your policy is as ready for winter as your home is.
At Ellen Fenton & Company Insurance, we help homeowners across New York and Pennsylvania stay one step ahead — with coverage designed for real life, and support that’s just a phone call away when the unexpected hits.
Your Winter Homeowners Prep Checklist
✅ Schedule furnace maintenance
✅ Insulate pipes and attics
✅ Clean gutters and clear drainage
✅ Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
✅ Stock up on salt, shovels, and emergency supplies
✅ Review your homeowners coverage
Before the Snow Falls...
Take a few hours this week to get winter-ready — your future self will thank you when that first big storm rolls in.
📋 [Download our full checklist here]
🕒 [Schedule a quick coverage review with our team]
Because no matter what this winter brings, we’re here to help keep your home — and everything in it — protected.
