INSURANCE
Fall Reset: Easy Ways to Get Your Home and Car Ready for Winter
Fall is the perfect time to start preparing your house and vehicle ahead of potentially hazardous winter conditions.
By Bob Nelson
As routines return and the weather shifts, autumn serves as a natural reset moment to review two of the things we rely on most every day: our homes and our vehicles.
For drivers, the transitional season presents changes in our environment that can seem to sneak up fast, such as darker commutes, slick roads and an increase in wildlife encounters. At home, it’s time to prepare for winter weather by securing your yard and house. While you’re at it, this is also a good time to re-evaluate your insurance coverage. By making sure there are no gaps, you can avoid costly surprises later.
Check your gutters to make sure there are no blockages. | PHOTO: ESBPROFESSIONAL/ENVATO
Mitigating autumn and winter risks at home
Severe seasonal storms bring high winds and heavy precipitation that can severely impact your property. Taking preventative steps now helps safeguard your assets before the freeze sets in.
Secure the exterior: High winds can compromise loose roof shingles, siding and gutters. Inspect your roof for damage, clear your gutters to ensure effective drainage, and trim overhanging tree branches.
Prevent water and ice damage: Ice dams form when poor attic insulation and ventilation cause snow to melt and refreeze, wreaking havoc on your roof and shingles. Ensure your attic is properly insulated and air leaks are sealed.
Protect your pipes: Cold snaps can freeze pipes, leading to bursts and water damage. Keep your home at a relatively even temperature, insulate exposed pipes and disconnect outdoor water lines for the season.
Trim branches to ensure debris does not compromise your roof, shingles and gutters. | PHOTO: VALERIYAGONCHARUKPHOTO/ENVATO
Seasonal vehicle maintenance Prepare your car for slick roads and reduced visibility by checking your tires, brakes and wipers before the weather turns. When heavy storms are predicted, park vehicles in a garage or shelter to shield them from flying debris. Get more winter vehicle tips here.
Seasonal brake checks are vital to ensure maximum stopping power . | PHOTO: LIGHTFIELDSTUDIOS/ENVATO
Optimize your home protection with CAA While regular maintenance mitigates many risks, some seasonal weather issues are unavoidable. This is where CAA’s specialized coverage options provide a crucial safety net. For example, Service Line/Water Coverage protects against unexpected pipe failures, while Home Equipment Breakdown coverage looks after your central heating and HVAC systems. Best of all, members can unlock significant savings and maximize their peace of mind by bundling their home and auto insurance.
Depending on your heating system, CAA has options to ensure you are covered. Get in touch to learn more. | PHOTO: VARYAPIGU/ENVATO
NEWFOUNDLAND CAA members save up to 10% discount on home insurance and up to 20% on auto insurance. Auto and Property Insurance are underwritten by Munn Insurance. To qualify for the discount you must be a current CAA member in good standing (CAA membership dues paid in full by membership expiry date).
NS/NB/P.E.I. CAA members save up to 20%(1) on CAA Home & Auto Insurance. Auto and Property Insurance and CAA Tire Coverage are underwritten by CAA Insurance Company. (1) To qualify for the discount you must be a current CAA Member in good standing (CAA Membership dues paid in full by membership expiry date.) Maximum savings for auto insurance in P.E.I. is up to 20%.
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Trim branches to ensure debris does not compromise your roof, shingles and gutters. | PHOTO: VALERIYAGONCHARUKPHOTO/ENVATO
Mitigating Autumn and Winter Risks at Home
Severe seasonal storms bring high winds and heavy precipitation that can severely impact your property. Taking preventative steps now helps safeguard your assets before the freeze sets in.
Secure the exterior High winds can compromise loose roof shingles, siding and gutters. Inspect your roof for damage, clear your gutters to ensure effective drainage, and trim overhanging tree branches.
Prevent water and ice damage Ice dams form when poor attic insulation and ventilation cause snow to melt and re-freeze, wreaking havoc on your roof and shingles. Ensure your attic is properly insulated and air leaks are sealed.
Protect your pipes Cold snaps can freeze pipes, leading to bursts and water damage. Keep your home at a relatively even temperature, insulate exposed pipes and disconnect outdoor water lines for the season.
Seasonal brake checks are vital to ensure maximum stopping power . | PHOTO: LIGHTFIELDSTUDIOS/ENVATO
Seasonal Vehicle Maintenance Prepare your car for slick roads and reduced visibility by checking your tires, brakes and wipers before the weather turns. When heavy storms are predicted, park vehicles in a garage or shelter to shield them from flying debris. Get more winter vehicle tips here.
Depending on your heating system, CAA has options to ensure you are covered. Get in touch to learn more. | PHOTO: VARYAPIGU/ENVATO
Optimize Your Home Protection with CAA While regular maintenance mitigates many risks, some seasonal weather issues are unavoidable. This is where CAA’s specialized coverage options provide a crucial safety net. For example, Service Line/Water Coverage protects against unexpected pipe failures, while Home Equipment Breakdown coverage looks after your central heating and HVAC systems. Best of all, members can unlock significant savings and maximize their peace of mind by bundling their home and auto insurance.