Cold-weather storms cost billions in insured losses every year, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Buying apartment insurance is one way to keep from getting left out in the cold.
Here are three ways that cold weather and storms can cause havoc.
1. A power outage caused by high winds, snow, or ice
The only thing worse than sitting in the dark during a power outage? Your microwave, TV, or refrigerator frying from the power surge once the juice comes back on line.
Gotham says: The damage caused by a power surge is covered–but you should be using surge protectors, especially for your computer. And if your fridge loses power, apartment insurance has got you covered for $500 worth of food spoilage–that’s a lot of stir-fry!
2. Burst pipes from a deep freeze
Escaping to warmer weather for a weekend? Two things: Set the room thermostat to 60 degrees before you leave. Any lower than that, you risk freezing pipes–the most common cold-weather claim. And buy apartment insurance to make sure you’re covered.
Gotham says: Pipes, especially in high-rises, are frequently not insulated properly. And while setting your thermostat to 60 degrees might seem wasteful, you’ll be consuming a lot more energy than that doing a renovation after water damage.
3. Tree limbs blown through roofs and walls
Shaded streets in brownstone neighborhoods are charming, for sure–until a blizzard comes through and sends tree-limb projectiles into or through property.
Gotham says: Apartment insurance covers not only the damage the tree inflicts on the house, but also property that’s been damaged inside from other wind-blown debris that lets in rain or snow.
Contact Gotham for a free quote today.
A version of this post originally appeared on Brownstoner.
