Agent’s Brief: Don't Let the Minnesota Cold Freeze Your Coverage

Daniel Martin
2 days ago
2 min read

Hey, it’s Daniel Martin – an agent here at Citizens Alliance Agency (CAA). With this January 2026 deep freeze gripping Minnesota, I’m seeing more and more homeowners face denied claims because of simple maintenance issues. Around here, ‘frozen’ doesn’t always mean ‘covered,’ and that can lead to expensive surprises.

Here is how to stay protected:

1. Respect the 55°F Minimum

Most policies require you to use "reasonable care" to maintain heat. If you're heading south, never set your thermostat below 55°F. If a pipe bursts and your smart home logs show you dipped lower to save on utilities, your carrier may deny the claim for negligence.

2. Prevent the "Burst"

Circulate Air: Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to let warm air reach the plumbing.
Manage Snow: Use a roof rake on your eaves after heavy snow. Ice dams are a major cause of interior water damage, and insurers are increasingly strict about "roof neglect" in 2026.
Know the Valve: Find your main water shut-off now. Your policy requires you to "mitigate damage" immediately; fumbling for a valve while the basement floods can jeopardize your payout.

3. Check Your Riders

Standard policies cover a burst pipe, but they often exclude water that backs up through a floor drain. Ask your agent for a Sewer/Water Backup Rider. It’s a cheap add-on that covers the messy "backflow" that occurs during mid-winter thaws.

4. Liability Matters

Clear your walkways. If a neighbor slips on your ice, you are responsible. Your liability coverage is there for you, but preventing the fall keeps your premiums from spiking in 2027.

Bottom Line:

Insurance is for accidents, not a lack of maintenance. Keep the heat on, the snow raked, and your main valve accessible. Contact Daniel Martin at (833) 586-9779 today!