Leaving Home for the Holidays? A Winter Home Checklist for Minnesota and Wisconsin

Heading out of town for the holidays? Whether you’re visiting family or escaping somewhere warmer, there’s nothing quite like coming home after a great trip.

Unless, of course, you’re greeted by frozen pipes, water damage, or a driveway buried in snow.

Winter in Minnesota and Wisconsin doesn’t take a holiday. Before you pack the car and hit the road, use this winter home checklist to help protect your property while you’re away.

Your Winter Home Checklist Before Holiday Travel

A little preparation can go a long way toward preventing costly winter surprises.

• Keep the heat on. Maintain a safe indoor temperature to help prevent frozen pipes. At least 55°F is a common recommendation, but some homes require higher settings.
• Protect your plumbing. Insulate exposed pipes, check for leaks, and consider shutting off your main water supply for extended trips if it’s safe for your plumbing system.
• Clear snow and ice. Remove snow from walkways and arrange for snow removal while you’re gone.
• Check doors and windows. Lock everything securely and inspect for drafts or gaps that could let cold air inside.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure they’re working before leaving.
• Ask someone to check in. Have a trusted neighbor or family member periodically inspect your home, especially during extreme cold.

These simple winter home safety tips can help protect your home while you enjoy the holidays.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Winter Damage?

Your homeowners insurance may help cover certain unexpected winter-related losses, including damage from burst pipes or winter storms.

However, coverage isn’t automatic. Insurance policies often require homeowners to take reasonable precautions to maintain heat and prevent freezing. Damage caused by neglect or insufficient maintenance may not be covered.

Before traveling, review your policy so you understand your coverage and responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Home Protection

What temperature should I leave my house at during winter vacation?

Generally, at least 55°F is recommended, although colder climates, plumbing locations, and policy requirements may call for higher temperatures.

Does homeowners insurance cover frozen pipes?

Many policies cover sudden water damage from burst pipes when reasonable precautions were taken to prevent freezing. Coverage varies.

Should I shut off my water before leaving?

For extended trips, shutting off the main water supply may help prevent major leaks. Check your heating and plumbing requirements first.

Does homeowners insurance cover ice dam damage?

Some policies cover resulting damage from ice dams, but exclusions and maintenance requirements may apply.

Do I need additional insurance if my home is vacant for the winter?

Possibly. Extended vacancies may affect coverage, so contact your insurance agent before leaving for an extended period.

Travel With Peace of Mind This Holiday Season

At Hermann Insurance Services, we’ve helped Minnesota and Wisconsin families protect what matters most for generations.

Before your next holiday getaway, contact our team to review your homeowners insurance coverage. We’ll help you understand your options so you can focus on enjoying your time away.