When winter rolls in, it doesn’t just bring hot cocoa and snow days—it ushers in some of the costliest and most disruptive claims adjusters face each year. For insurance agents and adjusters, being prepared for cold-weather losses is critical to serving families quickly and effectively. And for the general public, awareness can mean the difference between a cozy winter and a costly disaster.
In this blog, we’ll uncover five of the most common (and surprising) winter claims, explain why they matter, and show how CRS is ready to step in when families need warmth and shelter the most.
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The Quiet Culprit: Frozen Pipes
It only takes a few hours of below-freezing temperatures for pipes to freeze and burst, causing thousands in damage. Frozen pipes are the sneakiest of winter claims—they often go unnoticed until water starts gushing.
Why it matters: Burst pipes can render a home unlivable in minutes, displacing families during the harshest months.
Pro Tip: Insulate exposed pipes and let faucets drip during extreme cold snaps. Encourage homeowners to keep thermostat settings consistent.
Did You Know
The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety reports a burst pipe can cost $5,000+ in water damage.
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Snowmelt and Soggy Surprises
Snow may look picturesque, but when it melts too quickly, it can seep into roofs, walls, and basements. The result? Structural damage and mold growth.
Why it matters: Post-storm thawing often creates more claims than the storm itself. Families may need temporary housing while remediation is underway.
Pro Tip: Remind Policyholders to clear gutters, maintain proper drainage, and shovel snow away from the foundation.
Stat Check
According to the National Flood Insurance Program, just one inch of water in a home can cause more than $25,000 in damage.
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The ALE Blind Spot
Loss of Use (Additional Living Expenses, or ALE) is one of the most overlooked areas of a claim. Many homeowners don’t realize their policy covers temporary housing and essential living costs when a home becomes uninhabitable.
Why it matters: Without ALE awareness, families may endure unsafe conditions or unnecessary stress when CRS can quickly step in with housing solutions.
Pro Tip: Adjusters should clearly explain ALE coverage upfront, especially during winter months when displacement is common.
Stat Check
Winter storms cause an average of $1.5 billion annually in insured losses (Insurance Information Institute).
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Collapsing Roofs & Heavy Snow Loads
That postcard-worthy snow piling on rooftops isn’t always harmless. When weight exceeds design limits, roofs can sag or even collapse.
Why it matters: Roof collapses force immediate evacuations, making fast, reliable temporary housing a must.
Pro Tip: Encourage homeowners to safely clear snow from rooftops or hire professionals to avoid overloading structures.
Stat Check
Stat Check: According to FEMA, just two feet of wet snow can weigh up to 20 pounds per square foot, enough to stress or collapse many roofs.
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Emergency Housing in a Blizzard? It’s Possible.
When blizzards shut down travel, temporary housing placements can feel impossible. But with CRS’s nationwide network and partnerships, families can still be relocated safely and quickly.
Why it matters: Displacement during winter is not just inconvenient—it can be life-threatening.
Pro Tip: Adjusters should lean on CRS early in catastrophic events. Our experience and partnerships (including unique solutions like Airbnb placements) ensure no family is left in the cold.
Reality Check
FEMA notes that 60% of Americans aren’t prepared for a power outage lasting more than one day.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of the Storm
Winter may be unpredictable, but preparation doesn’t have to be. For adjusters and insurance agents, anticipating these cold-weather claims ensures smoother resolutions and happier Policyholders. For families, knowing ALE coverage and CRS’s rapid housing solutions can turn a crisis into a manageable inconvenience.
We pride ourselves on being ready 24/7 - because families deserve more than just shelter. They deserve peace of mind.