Coming Home Magazine

COMING HOME MAGAZINE 37 It happens every year, so why is it that severe winter weather seems to catch everyone off guard? Not this time around, Mother Nature. As a community association resident, preparing for the elements is the best thing you can do to protect your family and your investment. Here's how to keep your home and neighborhood warm and comfortable all season long. COMMUNICATE Before winter settles in, neighbors should be aware of their duties: curbside tree trimming, sidewalk deicing, and more. Although it's the board's responsibility to remind residents about the outdoor areas they're required to maintain and what the association handles, homeowners have a job, too. Homeowners are sometimes the first to spot hazards—so say something when you see something! Wonder who's in charge of salting a slick walkway? Don't ignore it; reach out to the board. By sharing information and communicating, you prevent confusion and address issues before they become more serious problems. PLAN FOR SNOW REMOVAL Slipping and sliding down your front porch steps is neither merry nor fun. Check your community's deicing rules, and stock up on supplies that combat snow and ice buildup. Here's what to have on hand: If you live in a snow-prone community, think about hiring a professional snow removal contractor. These businesses offer everything from plowing and blowing services to salting and deicing solutions. Connect with your board for a referral and verify their credentials, reviews, and pricing in advance. PREP LANDSCAPING Your yard contributes to the association's overall aesthetic, so show pride in ownership by tending to it. Keep landscaping healthy and ready for spring by fertilizing the soil to nourish roots, watering dormant plants until the ground freezes, and adding a thick layer of mulch for insulation. Also, properly winterize irrigation. Shut off the main water supply, disable the controller, and insulate any exposed components. PROTECT STRUCTURES Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures can take a toll on homes. Run inspections and schedule maintenance to check roofs, gutters, foundations, doors and windows. Remember to drip pipes. Getting ahead of repairs will maintain the structural integrity of your home and help avoid costly damage or erosion. BRACE FOR POWER OUTAGES Power outages can occur in a snap during harsh winter weather. Make efforts now to ensure the lights stay on during a power outage later. Use surge protectors to shield electronics from power fluctuations, invest in a generator for backup electricity, and buy portable heaters that run on batteries or fuels. STORE IMPORTANT CONTACTS In an emergency, like a lasting power outage or excessive snowfall, people will want to know you're safe. Make sure your contacts can receive and send text messages. Program emergency numbers, like fire, police, and ambulance, in your phone. And confirm that your managed community has your contact information and that you have theirs. Create a paper copy of important phone numbers and email addresses in case your phone loses power. CHECK YOUR INSURANCE POLICY Your homeowners' insurance is designed to protect you. Review your insurance policy to understand your coverage and who to contact if your home is damaged by winter weather. Write down your policy and contact numbers for emergencies, and note issues that may not be covered and why a claim could be denied. Always contact your insurance agent if you have questions about your coverage. With a little preparation and a touch of creativity, your home can become the coziest place to experience the most magical time of the year. • Snow shovel • Snowblower • Snow broom • Non-corrosive ice melt products • Ice chisel • Ice scraper • Sand or kitty litter • Salt COMING HOME MAGAZINE 37

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