Living in the Inland Northwest, we know the drill. One day it’s a crisp, sunny afternoon on the Centennial Trail. The next, we’re buried under a foot of heavy, wet snow.
While we scrape windshields and salt driveways, our homes fight a silent battle against the elements. At North Town Insurance, we field calls every winter. Panicked homeowners often discover that “winter wonderland” can quickly turn into a “water damage nightmare.”
But here is the million-dollar question: Does your insurance policy actually cover the damage?
We are your local independent agents right here in Spokane. We’re breaking down the most common winter claims and the “gotcha” exclusions. We want to make sure you aren’t left out in the cold.
1. The Ice Dam Dilemma
Ice dams create a classic Spokane headache. Heat escapes your attic and melts the snow on your roof. The water refreezes at the eaves. This traps a pool of water that backs up under your shingles.
- The Good News: Most standard homeowners policies (HO-3) cover interior water damage caused by an ice dam. Does water leak through the ceiling? Does it ruin your drywall or floors? Your policy typically pays for the repairs.
- The “Gotcha”: Your policy generally does not cover the cost to remove the ice dam itself. Furthermore, the adjuster might find the dam formed due to a lack of maintenance. For example, did you leave gutters clogged with pine needles? You could face a denial.
- Pro Tip: Keep those gutters clean. Consider using a roof rake to safely remove snow from your roof edges after a heavy storm.
2. Burst Pipes: Sudden vs. Neglect
Temperatures in Spokane County often drop into the single digits. Pipes in unheated crawl spaces or exterior walls face serious risks.
- The Good News: A pipe might burst suddenly and create water damage. Policies usually cover this peril. This includes the cost to tear out the wall to access the pipe. It also covers the repair of the resulting water damage.
- The “Gotcha”: Insurance covers “sudden and accidental” damage. It does not cover negligence. Did you leave for a week-long vacation to Hawaii? Did you turn your furnace off to save money? Your carrier will likely deny the claim because you failed to maintain heat in the home.
- Pro Tip: Leaving town? Keep your thermostat set to at least 55°F. Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate around plumbing.
3. Roof Collapse from Snow Load
We all remember winters where the snow never stops piling up. The weight can be immense.
- The Good News: Standard policies almost always cover structural collapse caused by the weight of ice, snow, or sleet.
- The “Gotcha”: This coverage applies to the structure. Do you have a flimsy carport or an old shed? Coverage might be limited if it wasn’t built to code. Insurers also scrutinize aging roofs with pre-existing rot.
4. The “Melting Snow” Flood Myth
We see this misunderstanding often. The big melt comes in the spring. Water pools around your foundation and seeps into your basement.
- The Reality: Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage. This includes overland flooding from melting snow. Water entering from the ground up is your responsibility. You need a separate Flood Insurance policy for protection.
- Pro Tip: Extend your downspouts at least 5-10 feet away from your foundation. This directs melting snow away from your basement.
5. Falling Trees
Spokane is known for its trees. Heavy snow and wind can bring them down.
- The Rule of Thumb: A tree might fall on your house or fence. Insurance typically helps pay for the repairs and the removal of the tree.
- The Exception: Sometimes a tree falls in your yard and doesn’t hit a structure. It just lands on the lawn. Insurance usually won’t pay to remove it. Insurers consider this a landscaping issue, not a property damage claim.
Is Your Policy Ready for a Spokane Winter?
Insurance policies are not one-size-fits-all. North Town Insurance is an independent agency. We compare policies from multiple top-rated carriers to find your specific coverage “mix.” We can help you check for specific endorsements, like “Water Backup and Sump Pump Overflow.” This coverage is a lifesaver during the spring melt.
Don’t wait until water drips from your ceiling. Check your coverage now.
Contact North Town Insurance Today for a quick policy review. Let’s make sure your home is as prepared for winter as you are.
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Fine Print: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Insurance policies vary significantly by carrier and state. To understand your actual coverage, exclusions, and deductibles, please review your specific policy documents or schedule a consultation with your licensed insurance agent.