New England winters can be tough, and if you live in Maine or New Hampshire, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. But some of the biggest winter risks for homeowners don’t start with a snowstorm—they begin with overlooked maintenance tasks in the fall. Before temperatures drop and snow starts piling up, take a closer look at your home’s condition. Checking off a few key items now can prevent unexpected (and expensive) repairs down the road.
From cleaning out your chimney to keeping critters out of your attic, here’s what you should tackle now to keep your home safe, comfortable, and protected all season long.
Chimney and Stove Cleaning: A Must-Do for Home Safety
There’s something comforting about sitting by a roaring fire on a cold winter evening. But here’s the thing: a neglected chimney can turn that cozy scene into a nightmare. Over time, creosote—a sticky, tar-like substance—builds up inside chimneys. Just a spark can set it ablaze, causing a chimney fire that might spread to the rest of your home. Regular maintenance is key to preventing these dangerous situations.
What’s at stake?
Imagine a homeowner in Portland, Maine, who skipped their annual chimney cleaning. They figured, “It’s just one season—I’ll do it next year.” One cold night in December, a thick, black smoke started filling the living room. Turns out, the creosote buildup had caught fire, damaging the chimney’s structure and costing over $5,000 in repairs—not to mention the fear and disruption during the holiday season.
What to do instead:
Slips, Falls, and Icy Driveways: Cold Weather Hazards Start Now
While winter brings ice and snow, the time to prepare is during the fall. Icy walkways, slippery driveways, and loose steps all become prime locations for accidents once the temperatures drop below freezing. And it’s not just about avoiding an embarrassing slip on your front step—falls can lead to serious injuries and, sometimes, costly liability claims if a visitor gets hurt on your property.
What’s the risk?
Picture this: a neighbor comes over to drop off holiday cookies, but the loose railing on your front steps gives way. They fall, fracturing their wrist. Homeowners insurance might cover some of the medical costs, but it’s a headache you don’t want during the holidays. Avoid this scenario by getting a head start on safety.
What to do instead:
Vermin and Rodent Infestations: Unwanted Winter Guests
As the temperature drops, we all like to cozy up inside—so do rodents. Mice, squirrels, and even raccoons look for warm places to nest as the days get colder, and your attic or basement is a perfect spot for them to settle in. The problem? Most homeowners insurance policies won’t cover damage caused by these critters. That means chewed wires, shredded insulation, and gnawed structural beams are all on your dime.
What’s at stake?
Take, for instance, a homeowner in New Hampshire who ignored a small gap in their garage door. A family of squirrels found their way inside and made themselves at home in the attic. By the time the homeowners discovered them, the squirrels had chewed through electrical wiring, creating a fire hazard that required a licensed electrician to repair. The final bill? $2,000 out-of-pocket.
What to do instead:
Not all fall maintenance tasks are dramatic, but even small efforts can prevent big problems down the line. Cleaning gutters, checking the roof, and prepping your heating system can make the difference between a smooth winter and an emergency call to a contractor in the middle of a snowstorm.
What to do this season:
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
To help you get started, here’s a quick checklist of fall tasks that can keep your home safe and sound:
Taking these simple steps now can prevent expensive, time-consuming repairs later. Not sure if your homeowners policy covers you for every scenario? Give us a call or stop by—we’re happy to review your policy and make sure you’re ready for whatever this winter throws at you.
As always, if you have questions about your coverage or want to discuss how to protect your home this season, reach out to our team at Chalmers Insurance Group. We're here to help!
