01/22/2026
Exterior property
• Insulate water lines. Protect exterior water lines from freezing by insulating.
• Disconnect hoses. Remove and drain outdoor hoses and store them indoors.
• Trim tree limbs. Cut back any tree branches that could damage your home or landscaping if they fall.
• Plan for snow and ice removal. Prepare for snow and ice removal by ensuring you have shovels and salt on hand.
Roof
• Inspect periodically. Regularly inspect your roof, at minimum in the spring and fall. Consider hiring a professional
roofer for thorough inspection and maintenance. For flat or sloped roofs, ensure edges and seams are prepared
to prevent snowdrifts.
• Have a snow removal plan. Develop a strategy for removing snow and ice from your roof.
• Check flashing. Ensure flashing around chimneys, vents and skylights is intact and properly sealed.
• Prevent ice dams. Ensure proper insulation and ventilation in your attic and maintain gutters to prevent
ice dams, which occur when freezing and thawing cause ice buildup on the roof.
Gutters
• Clean gutters. Thoroughly clean your gutters by removing debris and unclogging drains.
• Test for backups. Run water through gutters to check for any backups.
• Direct water flow. Ensure downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation.