A Guide to Winterizing Your Home

Drafts, Doors, and Dollars

To winterize your home, start with the biggest leaks, such as attic hatches, exterior doors, baseboards, and windows. Add adhesive weatherstripping to door jambs and sweeps to the bottom edge; use silicone caulk around window and door casings, plumbing penetrations, and where siding meets the foundation. Do a simple smoke-pencil test: on a windy day, turn on kitchen/bath fans, then move an incense stick or smoke pencil along trim and outlets; smoke that wavers or is sucked inward flags a leak. Air sealing paired with insulation typically reduces heating costs by 10–15 percent, which is why it’s the first, highest-ROI winter task.

Heat Without the Headache: HVAC Tune-Ups

A pre-winter service should inspect burners and heat exchangers, test safeties, verify combustion and draft, clean the flame sensor, check refrigerant levels for heat pumps, and calibrate the thermostat. Replace filters every 1–3 months; most homes do best with MERV 8–11 for airflow and capture balance, while allergy households often choose MERV 11–13 if the system can handle it. For setback savings, drop the thermostat 7–10° F while you sleep or are away for 8 hours; many households see annual heating costs 10 percent lower without sacrificing comfort.

Pipes on Ice? Not Today.

Slip foam sleeves over exposed lines in basements, crawlspaces, and garages. Cap outdoor faucets and shut interior valves to drain the exterior lines. During a deep cold snap, run a pencil-thin trickle from a tap to keep water moving. Smart leak sensors should be installed beneath sinks, near the water heater, and behind the washer. If a line bursts, an automatic shut-off valve at the main (or a smart valve at key branches) can stop flow fast and limit damage.

Roof, Gutters, and the Great Ice Dam Escape

Clean gutters of leaves and grit, then test the flow by running a garden hose at the high end. Confirm each downspout discharges several feet from the foundation. Prevent ice dams by keeping the attic cold. Seal all attic air leaks around light fixtures and chases, ensure continuous soffit intake and ridge or gable exhaust, and avoid venting bath fans into the attic. Schedule a roof inspection annually or after hail; a pro will spot lifted shingles, failed flashing, and soft decking before snow finds them.

Safety First: Fire, Carbon Monoxide, and Generators

Place smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on each level. Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level and near sleeping spaces. Test monthly and replace batteries on a set schedule, twice per year. Space heaters need a 3-foot buffer from anything that burns, must sit on a flat surface, and should plug directly into a wall outlet with tip-over and overheat protection. If using a portable generator, run it outdoors at least 20 feet from doors and windows, never in a garage, and power the house through a transfer switch.

Call Your Agent Before the Snow Flies

Winter-proofing lowers risk and may unlock discounts. Talk with your local Tennessee agent about coverage tweaks for cold-weather hazards and home upgrades, before the first freeze turns minor issues into major claims. Give us a call at (615) 716-2123.

5 Reasons Why Life Insurance is Essential for Your Family’s Future

Life insurance is a valuable financial tool to help you protect your loved ones. It can provide peace of mind, stability, and long-term benefits that go far beyond a single payout. Whether you are starting a family or planning for retirement, the right life insurance policy can help ensure financial security for years to come. The following are five key reasons why life insurance is essential for your family’s future.

Financial Security

If an unexpected accident or debilitating illness or injury leads to incapacitation or death, life insurance can help your loved ones maintain their lifestyle and meet their financial obligations. The death benefit can help replace lost income, pay off debts, and cover expenses such as mortgage payments, childcare, and education. Without life insurance, your family could face serious financial hardship during one of life’s most difficult times. Having a policy in place provides assurance that they will have the resources they need to remain financially stable.

Final Expenses Coverage

Funerals, burials, and other end-of-life costs can be more expensive than many people realize. A traditional U.S. funeral with viewing and burial can range from $8,000 to $12,000. Life insurance can relieve your family of the financial burden of covering outstanding medical bills, funeral arrangements, and burial or cremation costs. This coverage allows your loved ones to focus on healing and remembrance, rather than the financial stress of paying for final expenses. Even a modest policy can make a meaningful difference.

Cash Value

Permanent whole life or universal life insurance includes a cash value component that grows over time and acts as a savings account built into your policy. Cash value accumulates tax deferred and can be accessed through loans or withdrawals while you are living. It can serve as an additional source of funds for emergencies, education expenses, or retirement. Long-term growth potential makes permanent life insurance an attractive option if you are seeking protection and financial flexibility.

Chronic or Terminal Illness Coverage

Living benefits included in many life insurance policies provide coverage if you are diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness. (In this context, chronic illness is a medical condition that prevents you from performing basic daily activities without assistance for an extended period.) These benefits allow you to access a portion of your death benefit early to cover medical treatments, long-term care, and other personal expenses. They can help you maintain quality of life and reduce stress during a serious health challenge.

Tax-Free Payout

Death benefits are typically paid out to beneficiaries free of federal income tax. This is one of the most powerful advantages of life insurance. It allows your loved ones to receive the full amount of the policy, with no reduction for taxes. This provides financial liquidity and the ability to manage expenses, preserve assets, or invest without the additional financial burden.

Securing Your Family’s Future

More than a policy, life insurance is a promise to protect the ones who matter most. It can provide financial security, offer long-term savings and tax advantages, and play a vital role in your family’s financial plan. Review your coverage with our trusted agent at (615) 716-2123 to ensure your policy fits your current needs and adapts as your life changes.

Your Business Insurance Policy Checklist

As your business evolves over time, so should your insurance protection. Staying proactive with insurance coverage can mean the difference between a minor setback and a major financial loss. Schedule regular interviews with our experienced agent to help ensure your policies reflect your current operations, assets, and risks. Use the following checklist to evaluate your current policies and identify any gaps in protection.

General Liability Insurance

Every business should carry general liability coverage, regardless of size or industry. This insurance covers claims related to property damage, bodily injury, and personal injury that occur during normal business operations. Without a general liability policy, your company could face significant costs from lawsuits or settlements. Policy limits should reflect the scale of your business and the risks you face.

Commercial Property Insurance

Whether you lease office space or own your building, commercial property insurance can help protect your physical assets, including your building, equipment, furniture, and inventory. Ensure your policy covers less common risks, such as vandalism and certain weather events, as well as fire and theft. If you have multiple locations, each site should be covered.

Business Interruption Insurance

An unexpected event, such as a fire, storm, or power outage, could force you to close temporarily. Business interruption insurance can help you replace lost income and pay ongoing expenses, such as rent, payroll, and utilities, while operations are suspended. Check your policy’s coverage and waiting periods to determine how long your business will be protected during a shutdown.

Commercial Auto Insurance

If your business uses vehicles for client visits, deliveries, or transporting goods, you need commercial auto insurance coverage. Personal auto policies typically do not cover accidents involving company-owned or leased vehicles. Your policy should cover liability, collision, and uninsured motorist claims, and protect against claims from employees who use their personal vehicles for business purposes.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Most states require businesses that have employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. If an employee suffers an on-the-job injury, it pays for medical expenses and lost wages. This protection demonstrates responsibility and can help prevent costly lawsuits. Your policy should accurately reflect your payroll and include all job classifications.

Cyber Liability Insurance

The risk of cyberattacks and data breaches increases as more business operations move online. Cyber liability insurance can cover expenses related to data recovery, notification requirements, legal fees, and ransom payments in the event of a cyber incident. Coverage can vary widely among providers, so review limits and exclusions carefully.

Professional Liability Insurance

Any business that provides professional services or advice should consider professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions (E&O). This coverage protects against claims of negligence, mistakes, or misrepresentation. It is essential in law, real estate, accounting, and consulting industries.

Review Your Policies with Our Experienced Agent

Insurance policies can be complex, and missing key coverage could put your business at risk. Work with our knowledgeable Johnston & Associates Insurance agent to help ensure your insurance coverage aligns with your company’s industry, size, and growth plans. Regular policy reviews can identify coverage caps and potential savings and offer assurance that your business is protected from unexpected losses. Take the time to discuss your insurance needs with us at (615) 716-2123 so you can focus on running your business with confidence.

Preventing a Home Insurance Claim from Getting Denied

Home insurance offers peace of mind in case of unexpected damage or loss, but that protection only applies if your claim is approved. Many homeowners are surprised to learn their claims are denied for reasons that are often preventable. Knowing how to avoid the pitfalls can help ensure your homeowners’ policy works for you when you need it most.

Common Reasons for Claim Denials

After a fire, flood, or other disaster, learning that your claim has been denied may be the worst possible news. The following are some common reasons for homeowners’ insurance claim denials:

Exclusion clauses: Your claim will be denied if the cause of the damage is excluded from coverage in your policy.
Non-payment of premiums: Homeowners coverage is contingent upon timely premium payments.
Late filing: Insurance companies require prompt notification of losses and impose time-sensitive filing and documentation requirements for claims.
Insufficient documentation of damage: Accurately documenting the damage to your property in a detailed manner, with photographs, is essential.
Insufficient preventative measures following a loss: Policyholders must take steps to protect the property from further damage and mitigate the extent of loss. Failure to do so could be grounds for denial.
Questionable claims or false statements: The insurance company will send an adjuster to investigate your claim, which may be denied if anything questionable is found.

Avoid the Pitfalls

Take the following steps to help ensure you have the homeowners coverage you need, when you need it:

Review Your Policy Regularly

As your home changes, so do your coverage needs. Renovations, additions, and new appliances can all affect policy requirements. Review your homeowners policy after any major updates to your property and at least once a year to help prevent denied claims. Every home insurance policy has exclusions and limitations. Our agent can help you review your policy to identify these exclusions and advise you on additional coverage if necessary to help prevent unpleasant surprises.

Document the Condition of Your Property

Keep detailed records of the condition of your home, including photos or videos of each room and any valuable items. Store digital copies in the cloud so they remain accessible in case your home is damaged by fire or another peril. Documentation plays a key role in successful claims. It serves as crucial evidence in proving the pre-damage condition of your property and the extent of loss.

Perform Routine Maintenance

Claims may be denied if the insurer determines that neglect rather than a covered event caused damage. When a roof leaks due to long-term wear, your claim for storm damage may not be covered. Regularly inspect and maintain critical systems, including your roof, electrical, and plumbing, and keep records of maintenance and repairs to demonstrate your diligence.

Report Claims Promptly, Honestly, and Thoroughly

Delay in filing a claim can cause issues with approval. Most insurers require that claims be submitted within a specific time frame after a loss. Accuracy is essential. Incomplete or inaccurate information can lead to a denial. Provide a detailed description of the incident, along with supporting evidence, and do not exaggerate your losses. Insurance companies often verify claims with inspections or reports, and honesty keeps your credibility intact.

Connect with us at (615) 716-2123 for assistance on personal insurance that can protect you and your family should the unexpected occur.

Adjusting Life Insurance Coverage After a Pay Raise

A salary increase can be a cause for celebration. It reflects your hard work and dedication and provides new financial opportunities. It also changes your overall financial picture, making this a good time to review your life insurance coverage. Lifestyle, responsibilities, and long-term goals can change as your income grows. Reviewing your policy after a pay raise can help protect your loved ones.

How a Pay Raise Can Affect Life Insurance Needs

Life insurance is a safety net that should evolve with your financial circumstances. When income increases, your budget may expand to include higher living expenses, new investments, or larger financial commitments. For example, you may take on a bigger mortgage, upgrade your home, or start contributing to retirement savings. If your current coverage is based on your previous salary, it may not be enough to meet future needs or maintain your family’s standard of living. Life insurance should be sufficient to replace your new level of income and cover your obligations in case something should happen to you.

Evaluating Your Current Policy

Begin by reviewing the amount of life insurance coverage you have in place. Although individual situations can vary, many experts recommend 10 to 15 times your annual income, which increases with a pay raise. Next, determine whether your beneficiaries and policy terms still align with your goals. A change in marital status, the birth of a child, or the purchase of property are all reasons to reassess. Our trusted insurance agent can review your policy with you and help you identify any gaps or outdated details.

Options for Increasing Coverage

There are several ways to adjust or update a policy that no longer meets your needs. Depending on insurer rules and policy type, you may be able to increase your coverage amount without undergoing a full medical exam. Term life insurance can be a cost-effective way to increase coverage temporarily, particularly if you have new financial goals, such as paying off a mortgage or funding a child’s education. If you want lifetime coverage that builds cash value, a permanent life insurance option, such as whole or universal life, may be the best option.

Balancing Coverage and Affordability

While a pay raise offers more financial flexibility, your insurance premiums must still fit into your overall budget. The goal is to ensure adequate protection without overextending. Our friendly agent can help you compare policy types and premium structures to find the best fit for you.

Review Your Life Insurance Regularly

A pay raise is only one of the many life events that should trigger a review of your life insurance. Other milestones, such as marriage, a home purchase, or retirement planning, could also affect your coverage needs. One thing in life is certain: it never stays the same. Review your policy with one of our Johnston & Associates Insurance agents at (615) 716-2123 to help ensure your protection keeps pace with your changing lifestyle. By revisiting your life insurance after a salary increase, you can help ensure your family’s financial future is protected as your income grows.

5 Holiday Retail Risks to Avoid

For most retailers, the holiday season is the busiest and most profitable time of year. With higher customer traffic and increased online sales come greater risks. Both brick-and-mortar stores and e-commerce businesses face unique challenges over the holidays. Help protect your profits, customers, and reputation by taking steps to identify and manage these risks.

Theft and Shoplifting

Crowded stores, rushed shoppers, and distracted employees create the perfect opportunity for theft. Both shoplifting and employee theft tend to rise during the holiday rush. Help deter thieves by installing security cameras, placing mirrors in blind spots, and maintaining an adequate number of staff on the floor. Train staff to spot suspicious behavior and handle theft safely. Inventory tracking systems can identify discrepancies early before they become major losses.

Cybersecurity Threats

Online retailers face a surge in cyberattacks during the holidays. Hackers take advantage of increased web traffic and the urgency of holiday shopping to launch ransomware attacks, data breaches, and phishing scams. Protect your business with strong cybersecurity measures, such as updated software, multi-factor authentication, and secure payment gateways. Regularly monitor for unusual account activity and train staff to recognize phishing attempts. Our agent can help you find effective cyber liability insurance at the best available rates to provide financial protection in the event of a data breach.

Payment Fraud and Chargebacks

The rush of holiday sales can attract scammers. Fraudulent credit card transactions, chargeback scams, and fake refund requests typically spike during the holiday season. In-store and online retailers should use secure payment systems that include address verification and fraud detection tools. E-commerce businesses should monitor transactions for unusual patterns, such as multiple high-value orders from the same IP address, to help flag suspicious activity early. Meet with our experienced agent to review your commercial crime insurance policy before the holiday season to help protect your business.

Delivery and Package Fraud

Package theft and delivery scams are growing issues for e-commerce retailers. Criminals may intercept deliveries or claim packages never arrived to obtain refunds. Work with reputable shipping partners, require delivery confirmation, and use tamper-evident packaging to reduce losses. Clear communication with customers about delivery expectations can help prevent disputes. Insurance coverage for goods in transit can provide an added layer of protection against damage or loss.

Customer or Employee Injuries

Icy parking lots and overcrowded aisles can lead to injuries that result in costly claims. Retailers should maintain proper lighting, keep walkways clear, and promptly clean spills to help prevent accidents. Provide clear signage for wet floors or high-traffic areas. Remind employees to use safe lifting techniques and wear appropriate footwear in the warehouse or back room. General liability and workers’ compensation coverage can help protect your business if an injury occurs.

Protect Your Business This Holiday Season

Holiday sales can bring great rewards but also significant risks. Take proactive steps to improve security, maintain safety, and review insurance coverage to safeguard your business during the busiest time of year. Contact our local Tennessee agent today at (615) 716-2123 to help ensure your retail operation has the right coverage to handle whatever challenges the holidays may bring.

Driving Safety Tips for Holiday Travel

Every year, millions of Americans take to the road for the Thanksgiving holiday, traveling to spend time with their family and friends. Along with the anticipation of a wonderful celebration, the season has unpredictable weather, very heavy traffic, and an increased risk of accidents. If you have plans to travel this Thanksgiving, practicing safe driving conduct is critical. Read some of the basics that can help you enjoy a safe, pleasurable road trip.

Inspect Your Vehicle Before Your Trip

Before you leave, a quick check of your vehicle can help you avoid a breakdown or other problem. Ensure your tires have good tread and the tire pressure is correct. Check your oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels. Test your brake lights, headlights, and turn signals to ensure they work properly. If your car is due for a maintenance check, schedule it before your trip.

Plan Ahead and Leave Early

Plan your route before you leave to help you stay safe during Thanksgiving travel. Check weather forecasts, road closures, and traffic conditions. If possible, travel during off-peak hours, such as early morning or late evening, when the roads are often less congested. Leave early to reduce stress and allow time for unexpected delays.

Do Not Drive Distracted

Safe driving requires keeping your eyes on the road ahead, your hands on the wheel, and your full attention on the road ahead. Holiday travel often means traveling on unfamiliar routes and interacting with your passengers. Set your GPS before you start and pull over safely if you need to adjust it. Keep your phone in “Do Not Disturb” mode. If you need to send a message or make a call, let a passenger do it, or pull over. Focus on the road while driving and save the multitasking after you arrive.

Stay Alert and Drive Defensively

Defensive driving is essential, as over 80 million Americans will travel this year, an all-time record. Maintain a safe following distance, especially in wet, snowy, or icy conditions. Avoid sudden lane changes. Watch for other drivers who may be distracted or fatigued and give them plenty of space. Pull over to switch drivers or rest if you start feeling tired.

Stay Sober Behind the Wheel

Thanksgiving celebrations often include alcoholic drinks, but as we know, drinking and driving never mix. Even one drink can affect your judgment and reaction time. If your celebrations include alcoholic beverages, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or taxi service.

Prepare for Weather Changes

The weather can be unpredictable in late November. Rain, fog, or early snow can cause hazardous driving conditions. Slow down and increase the distance if you encounter slick roads or poor visibility due to fog, rain, or snow. Safety always takes priority over speed. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, with essentials such as blankets, water, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight, and snacks.

Make Sure You Are Covered Before You Hit the Road

Before setting out for Thanksgiving travel, ensure your auto insurance covers all the risks you could face while traveling during the busiest time of year. Reviewing your policy beforehand helps you confirm you have adequate liability, collision, and roadside assistance coverage. Call one of our friendly local Tennessee agents at (615) 716-2123 for guidance to ensure your current policy suits your travel needs. Knowing you are covered can provide peace of mind so you can enjoy the holiday with loved ones.

What to Expect in a Life Insurance Medical Exam

When you apply for life insurance, you will likely be asked to take a medical exam. The insurer will use the results of this routine checkup to help determine whether to sell you a policy and what your premium will be. Here, we explain what to expect and how to prepare for the exam.

Why Do Life Insurance Companies Require Medical Exams?

Essentially, a life insurance policy is a contract between the policyholder and the insurance company. In exchange for your premiums, the insurer agrees to provide financial support to your beneficiaries in the event of your death. To protect themselves financially, life insurance companies use a process known as underwriting to evaluate the risk of applicants, including life expectancy. This process involves gathering information about the health of the applicant. The medical exam provides a snapshot of your current health status and helps predict future risks.

What Happens During a Life Insurance Exam?

You cannot go to your doctor for a life insurance exam, but you can choose the place and time. The insurance company will hire a medical professional, such as a paramedical examiner or nurse, to perform the examination. The insurer pays for the exam, and the results are sent directly to the underwriting team, although you may request a copy.

The process takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. It generally begins with a series of questions about your personal health and family history. The physical part of the exam may include the following:

Height and weight
Blood pressure
Saliva sample
Urine sample
Blood work
Electrocardiogram or treadmill EKG (depending on your age and the requested policy limits)
Cognitive and mobility testing for older applicants

What Are Insurers Looking For?

Life insurance companies look for various health indicators in medical exams. These include body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, liver and kidney function, diabetes, hepatitis, HIV, prostate cancer indicators, illegal drug use, marijuana use, and nicotine use. In older applicants, they may also look for Alzheimer’s or other memory impairment.

How Can You Prepare for a Life Insurance Exam?

You cannot change your health overnight, but you can take certain steps to present your health status in the best light and help ensure accurate results:

Get good sleep the night before: Rest can help stabilize your heart rate and blood pressure.
Hydrate well: Drink plenty of water the day before and morning of your exam to facilitate blood draws and urine tests.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine: Consuming any of these substances before your exam could temporarily affect your blood pressure and test results.
Eat healthy and light: Avoid high-fat or salty foods before your medical exam. They can affect cholesterol and blood pressure readings.
Gather your medical information: Bring a list of your current medications, doctor contact information, and a medical history to the exam.

Do not worry if your health profile is not perfect. Even if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or other health issues, you may still qualify for life insurance coverage, although your premiums may be higher. Our friendly agents at Johnston & Associates Insurance are available to help. Call us today at (615) 716-2123.

Don’t Let a Disaster Halt Your Business: The Power of Business Interruption Insurance

When a fire, storm, or other unexpected event forces a business to shut down temporarily, the financial toll can be disastrous. This is where business interruption insurance comes in. This type of insurance is designed to protect your company’s income, help you pay your bills, and retain employees when the business is shuttered.

What Is Business Interruption Insurance?

Also known as business income insurance, this coverage provides financial assistance for lost revenue, ongoing expenses, and temporary relocation if your business is forced to close after a covered event, such as a fire or natural disaster. It applies to temporary disruption of operations during the business interruption period specified in the policy. Business interruption insurance can help cover payroll, loan payments, and taxes.

Why Should You Consider It?

Disasters rarely come with a warning. Fire, vandalism, or a natural disaster could disrupt operations and income for weeks or months. In such cases, many small businesses struggle to recover, and some may never reopen. Business interruption insurance can make it possible to keep your business going by helping you:

Replace lost income
Cover fixed expenses such as rent, utilities, and loan payments while operations are on hold
Retain valuable employees by continuing to pay wages
Fund temporary relocation while repairs are made
Minimize disruption for your customers and keep your reputation intact

FAQs About Business Interruption Insurance

Here we provide answers to some commonly asked questions about business interruption insurance.

Is this coverage included in a standard commercial property insurance policy?

No, it is not. Property insurance covers physical damage but not lost income or additional expenses due to disaster-related downtime. Business interruption insurance is a separate policy or endorsement.

Is lost revenue from backouts covered?

That depends on the cause of the power outage. If it results from physical damage to your property, for example, from a storm, this coverage could apply. General power outages not tied to property damage are typically excluded.

How long does coverage last after a disaster?

Business income insurance coverage typically lasts from the date the covered peril began until the date the damaged property is repaired and returned to the same condition as before the disaster, up to the time limit specified in the policy.

Can a seasonal business benefit from this coverage?

Yes, as seasonal businesses are particularly vulnerable when disaster strikes during peak season, they can benefit from business interruption insurance. A policy can be tailored to reflect the unique cycle of a business.

Are business interruption insurance premiums tax-deductible?

Premiums are generally tax-deductible as ordinary business expenses. As always, confirm compliance with your tax professional.

What is the cost of business interruption insurance?

The cost of this coverage can depend on various factors, including the industry, location, revenue, number of employees, and risk level of your business. Policy limits also affect your premiums. Our agents at Johnston & Associates Insurance can help you find the coverage you need at the best available rates. Give us a call at (615) 716-2123.

Fall Home Checklist: Protecting Your Property Before Winter Hits

When fall is in the air, it is the perfect reminder that winter is just around the corner. Preparing your home now for colder weather can help you avoid costly damage and keep your property safe. Taking proactive steps in the fall can protect your investment and give you peace of mind, knowing you are ready for whatever winter brings. This practical fall home checklist can help you safeguard your property.

Seal Air Leaks

Drafty windows and doors can make your home less comfortable and increase heating costs. Look for cracks or gaps in caulking and weatherstripping and repair or replace as needed. Sealing leaks saves energy and helps keep moisture and pests outside.

Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Colorful, falling leaves can clog your gutters and downspouts, causing water to back up and damage your roof, siding, or foundation. Clean out any debris and ensure water flows freely away from your home. Installing gutter guards can help minimize buildup.

Service Your Furnace

Before temperatures drop, have your furnace or heating system inspected. A professional can replace filters, clean components, and ensure it is running safely and efficiently. Routine maintenance can help prevent a breakdown when the weather is cold.

Drain Your Water Heater

Sediment buildup can cause clogs in your water heater. Draining it once a year can help remove sediment and keep it running efficiently. Check manufacturer instructions or contact a professional for help.

Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Fall is the perfect time to inspect smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly. Replace the batteries at least once a year and test smoke detectors once a month.

Clean Chimneys

Have a professional clean and inspect your fireplace and chimney before lighting a fire to take the winter chill away. If you have a gas fireplace, it is still important to inspect the chimney and flue for blockages and the gas lines and vents for leaks.

Shut Down Exterior Faucets

When temperatures dive, water left in exterior pipes can freeze and cause them to burst. Before winter arrives, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and shut off exterior water lines if possible. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas as a preventative measure.

Check Your Roof

The roof of your home is the first line of defense against snow, ice, and wind. Do it yourself or hire a professional to inspect for cracks, curling, or missing shingles. Address any needed repairs promptly.

Winterize Your Yard

To prepare your yard for winter, rake leaves, fertilize the lawn, and cover patio furniture. Clean and store mowers and other lawn equipment. Trim any overhanging tree branches that could break under the weight of snow or ice and damage your roof or power lines.

Review Your Homeowners Insurance with One of Our Johnston & Associates Insurance Agents

Winter storms can bring unexpected challenges, even with the most thorough preparation. Review your homeowners policy in the fall to ensure you are covered for common risks, such as burst pipes, fallen trees, and roof damage. Our knowledgeable agents can help you identify any gaps and recommend coverage to best protect your property at the most affordable rates. Contact us today at (615) 716-2123.

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