At Johnsen Insurance in Baraboo, WI, we work with a lot of homeowners who have cabins, lake houses, and vacation properties they close down every fall. Shutting up a seasonal home for the winter takes more thought and planning than most people realize, and skipping a few key steps can lead to some costly problems when spring comes back around.
Get Your Pipes and Plumbing Ready
One of the most common issues we hear about is frozen or burst pipes. If you leave water in the lines and temperatures drop, you could come home in the spring to a real mess. Before you leave, drain all the water lines and shut off the main supply. If you have never winterized a property before, it is worth calling in a professional to make sure it gets done right.
Leave the Property Secure Before You Go
An empty seasonal home can be an easy target. Before you lock up, walk through and make sure every window and door is fully secure. Adding a basic security system or some motion-activated lighting is a smart move if you do not already have them. Pull out anything valuable.
Double-Check Your Insurance Coverage
A lot of homeowners do not know that standard home insurance policies can have coverage gaps when a property sits vacant for months. Talk to your agent before closing up so you know where your coverage stands going into the off-season.
We Can Help You Sort It Out
Johnsen Insurance in Baraboo, WI is here to help make sure your seasonal home stays covered the right way all year long. Reach out to us before the season ends and let us take a close look at what you have.
