This Winter Reminder Could Save You Thousands

Winter can bring more than just chilly weather and cozy nights by the fire. It can also cause serious damage to your home if you don’t take the right precautions. When the temperature drops, most of us think about the obvious things — coats, boots, maybe the thermostat. What often gets missed are the quiet problems that don’t show themselves until there’s water where it shouldn’t be.

Here’s a helpful thing to know: in HOA and condo communities, not every urgent-feeling issue is an association emergency — but a frozen or burst pipe absolutely is. A true association emergency is anything that threatens safety, major property damage, or essential services. That’s when immediate action matters most.

On the flip side, some common winter frustrations are handled elsewhere:

• A power outage belongs with the utility company.

• A furnace or water heater inside your home is typically the co-owner’s responsibility.

Knowing the difference helps everyone get faster help when it really counts.

Now for the part that can save you a lot of stress later.

Cold weather is especially hard on plumbing, and most winter damage is preventable with a few simple habits for your home.

Note: reference your Bylaws for association / owner responsibility list

Check and Insulate Your Pipes

Frozen pipes are a common cause of winter home damage. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands and can cause the pipes to burst. Repairing burst pipes can cost thousands, especially if water damage spreads to walls, floors, or ceilings.

• Insulate exposed pipes in basements, attics, and crawl spaces using foam sleeves or heat tape.

• Seal gaps and cracks around pipes where cold air can enter.

• Keep a slow drip of water flowing during extreme cold to prevent freezing.

• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

  
  

Taking these steps before the cold hits can prevent pipe bursts and the costly repairs that follow.

Maintain Your Heating System

Your heating system works harder in winter, so it needs to be in good shape to avoid breakdowns and inefficiency.

• Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up before winter starts.

• Replace or clean filters regularly to improve airflow.

• Check for leaks in ductwork that can waste heat.

• Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat to save energy.

  
  

A well-maintained heating system reduces the risk of emergency repairs and keeps your home warm without driving up energy bills.

Protect Your Roof and Gutters

Snow, ice, and freezing rain can damage your roof and gutters, leading to leaks and water damage inside your home.

• Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles and repair them promptly.

• Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage.

• Install gutter guards to prevent debris buildup.

• Remove heavy snow buildup carefully to avoid structural stress.

  
  

Ignoring roof and gutter maintenance can lead to leaks, mold growth, and expensive interior repairs.

Seal Windows and Doors

Cold air sneaking in through gaps around windows and doors can increase heating costs and cause drafts.

• Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal cracks and gaps.

• Install storm windows or plastic film insulation for extra protection.

• Check door sweeps and replace if worn out.

  
  

Sealing your home’s openings keeps warm air inside and cold air out, improving comfort and lowering energy bills.

Prepare Your Fireplace and Chimney

If you use a fireplace, it needs attention before winter to prevent fire hazards and ensure efficient heating.

• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional.

• Check for cracks or damage in the fireplace structure.

• Use a chimney cap to keep out animals and debris.

• Burn only dry, seasoned wood to reduce creosote buildup.

  
  

Proper fireplace maintenance prevents dangerous chimney fires and costly repairs.

Protect Outdoor Plumbing and Equipment

Outdoor faucets, irrigation systems, and garden hoses are vulnerable to freezing temperatures.

• Drain and shut off outdoor water supplies.

• Store hoses indoors or in a shed.

• Cover outdoor faucets with insulated covers.

• Drain sprinkler systems to avoid pipe bursts.

  
  

Taking care of outdoor plumbing prevents damage that can be expensive to fix in spring.

Inspect Your Home’s Exterior

Winter weather can worsen existing damage on your home’s exterior.

• Check siding for cracks or loose panels and repair them.

• Look for gaps around vents and seal them.

• Trim tree branches that could break under snow and damage your roof or windows.

• Clear walkways and driveways of debris to prevent ice buildup.

  
  

Regular exterior maintenance helps your home withstand winter storms and reduces repair costs.

Monitor Your Home During Winter

Even with precautions, problems can arise. Regularly check your home during winter to catch issues early.

• Look for signs of leaks or water damage inside.

• Listen for unusual sounds from pipes or heating systems.

• Check attic and basement for cold spots or moisture.

• Keep an eye on your energy bills for unexpected increases.

  
  

Early detection allows you to address problems before they become expensive repairs.

Heading South or Leaving for a While?

If your home will be vacant, KS offers a Snowbird Service designed to keep an eye on things while you’re away. Think of it as a trusted neighbor checking in — with a professional checklist.