Burst pipes, ice dams, wind damage, and what Midwest homeowners should know

Winters in the Midwest can be harsh, bringing freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and damaging ice. These conditions often lead to unexpected home repairs—and just as importantly, questions about what homeowners’ insurance will actually cover. Here’s a clear breakdown of what most policies include.

Burst Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter storm issues. The good news is that damage from a burst pipe is usually covered, as long as the cause is sudden and accidental.

What’s typically covered:

• Water damage to floors, walls, and personal belongings
• Repairs to the damaged section of pipe

What may not be covered:

Insurers often require that homeowners take basic steps to prevent freezing, such as heating the home and insulating exposed pipes. If a pipe freezes because the home was left unheated or maintenance was neglected, the claim may be denied.

Ice Dams

Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the edge of the roof, preventing proper drainage. This buildup can push water under shingles and into your home.

Often covered:

• Water damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, and belongings
• Repairs to interior damage caused by the leak

Sometimes not covered:

• The cost to remove the ice dam itself
• Damage resulting from long‑term lack of maintenance

Insurers generally cover resulting damage, but they may not cover preventative maintenance or issues caused by improper roof care.

Wind and Ice Damage

High winds and heavy ice can lead to a range of structural problems.

Typically covered:

• Roof damage from strong winds
• Siding damage
• Fallen tree limbs that damage your home
• Wind‑driven snow or ice that forces its way inside and causes interior damage

Important to know:

Some policies include a separate wind or hail deductible, which may be higher than your standard deductible. Winter is a good time to review your policy so you’re not caught off guard during a claim.

What Homeowners Insurance Usually Doesn’t Cover

Even in winter, certain types of damage fall outside standard policy protections.

Not typically covered:

• Flooding (including snowmelt or water runoff)

         -  Flood insurance must be purchased separately.

Gradual damage, such as:

• Long‑term roof leaks
• Deteriorating shingles
• Poor insulation or ventilation issues
• Insurance is designed for sudden, accidental events—not ongoing maintenance problems.

Tips to Prevent Winter Storm Damage

While insurance can help with repairs, prevention is always your best first line of defense.

Recommended steps:

• Insulate pipes and keep your home adequately heated
• Clear gutters and downspouts before snow arrives
• Ensure proper airflow in your attic to prevent ice dams
• Trim tree branches that could fall under heavy ice
• Create a home inventory with photos or videos of your belongings

Review Your Coverage Before the Next Storm

Review your policy annually to make sure your coverage limits still make sense for your home. Construction costs and property values change, so your policy should keep up.

Consider checking:

• Dwelling coverage
• Personal property coverage
• Deductibles (especially wind or hail)
• Optional add‑ons like water backup, equipment breakdown and service line coverage