Freeze Preparation Checklist

Know what to do and what to document as proof.

Insurance note: Claims are often reduced due to "failure to take reasonable care." This checklist includes what to document.

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Complete these critical items in 30 minutes

Cover outdoor faucets + disconnect hoses Set heat to 65°F+ (even overnight) Know main water shutoff + test it During freeze: Drip faucets below 32°F Shut off irrigation + insulate valves During freeze: Open sink cabinets on exterior walls

Cover all outdoor faucets / hose bibs with insulated covers Disconnect hoses from spigots (store hoses) Wrap exposed pipes (garage, exterior walls, crawlspaces) Locate & label main water shutoff (practice shutting it off) During freeze: Drip all faucets (hot + cold) below 32°F During freeze: Open sink cabinet doors on exterior walls

Photo: covered faucets, wrapped pipes, shutoff location labeled

Set thermostat to 65°F+ (even overnight) Replace HVAC filter and test heat Ensure vents aren't blocked by rugs/furniture Keep garage door fully closed (especially if plumbing runs through garage) Do not rely on space heaters as primary heat

Photo: thermostat setpoint at 65°F+ (timestamped)

Shut off irrigation water supply Drain sprinkler lines and backflow preventer Insulate exposed valves and backflow device Turn off irrigation scheduling

Photo: irrigation shutoff valve OFF position, insulated backflow

Identify whether plumbing runs through garage walls/ceilings Insulate pipes + water heater in garage (if present) Keep attic access panels sealed/closed tightly Check attic ventilation isn't blocked

Seal gaps around exterior doors/windows (weather stripping / caulk) Add draft blockers at exterior doors Close blinds/curtains overnight to retain heat

Charge phones, battery packs, and laptops Flashlights ready (avoid candles) Store 1–3 days of water + shelf-stable food If indoor temp drops below 55°F: shut off main water Never run grills/generators/propane heaters indoors

Insulate water heater if in unconditioned space (garage) Know how to shut off water supply to heater Tankless: confirm freeze-protection mode is enabled Insulate exterior tankless units + nearby pipes

Photograph: covered faucets, wrapped pipes, thermostat setpoint Save receipts for supplies and winter prep work Review freeze exclusions in your policy Save insurer emergency claim number If damage occurs: shut off water fast, document timeline, start drying

Timestamped photos help with claims. Timeline notes if damage occurs.

Need help with prep?

MyHuis Winter Prep Visit - $149

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Freeze Preparation Checklist

1. Quick Start: Do These 6 First

2. Plumbing & Water Systems

3. Heating & Indoor Temperature

4. Outdoor Faucets & Irrigation

5. Garage, Attic & Hidden Spaces

6. Doors, Windows & Draft Points

7. Power Outages & Emergency Response

8. Water Heaters

9. Documentation & Insurance Readiness

Need help with prep?

Freeze Preparation Checklist

1. Quick Start: Do These 6 First

2. Plumbing & Water Systems

3. Heating & Indoor Temperature

4. Outdoor Faucets & Irrigation

5. Garage, Attic & Hidden Spaces

6. Doors, Windows & Draft Points

7. Power Outages & Emergency Response

8. Water Heaters

9. Documentation & Insurance Readiness

Need help with prep?

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