Keep your house safe this winter

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- Several inches of snow have fallen across southeast Ohio and with it comes another danger for Ohioan’s houses.

With the snow on the ground, and when warmer temperatures melt the snow, it can lead to water seeping into homes and cause damage. AAA said winter storms cause an average of $1.5 billion in insured losses each year. Peoples homes are insured but AAA’s Kimberly Schwind said everything might not be covered in your current policy.

“Every insurance policy is different, and every insurance agency is different, but as a general rule with water damage. Anything that comes from the top down. So if it rains snows, the ice dams that’s generally covered. Anything that comes from the bottom up… sewer backups…water that’s coming into your basement from the outside those things are typically not covered,” said Schwind.

One thing you do is to always make sure your sump pump is working properly. A way to protect important items in your basement is to store the items in plastic bins and place on shelves. Schwind said there are several ways to prevent expensive damage and repairs.

“You can prevent any of this damage so you don’t have to worry about what’s covered and what’s not covered. Just by going outside making sure your gutters are clear. If you notice the icicles, taking a broom or a rake, or even throwing some salt up there on the roof, something to try and remove the snow from the roof, so it’s not leaking into your house,” said Schwind.

AAA suggested everyone review their insurance policies at least once every six months. You should also double check your current policy after major life-changing events such as buying a house, getting married, or having children.