Protecting Your Home During Georgia's Winter Storm: Essential Tips from Space Intown at The Agency

As the greater Atlanta area prepare for a significant winter storm this weekend, homeowners need to take action to protect their most valuable investment. With forecasters predicting up to 0.4 inches of ice accumulation, widespread power outages, and temperatures in the teens, now is the time to winterize your property.

Governor Brian Kemp has declared a State of Emergency for all of Georgia, and Cobb County is under a Winter Storm Watch from Saturday afternoon through Monday morning. At Space Intown at The Agency, we want to ensure our community is prepared and protected.

Understanding Your Insurance Coverage

Before the storm hits, take a moment to review your homeowner's insurance policy. Understanding your coverage now can save significant stress later.

Burst Pipe Coverage

Most home and renters insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, which includes damage from burst pipes. However, policies typically will not cover frozen pipe damage if you did not take reasonable steps to protect your home, such as maintaining heat or properly insulating pipes. Flood insurance does not cover burst pipe damage.

Food Spoilage

If a power failure caused by a covered event spoils your refrigerated food, your policy may reimburse up to $500 for food replacement, often with no deductible. Take photos and keep a detailed list of spoiled items for your claim.

Know Your Deductible

Review your policy deductible and ensure you understand what you will be responsible for paying out of pocket in the event of damage.

Days Before the Freeze: Preparation Is Key

The time to act is now before temperatures drop. Here are essential steps every homeowner should take by Friday evening.

Protect Your Pipes

• Wrap outdoor pipes and any indoor pipes in unheated areas with insulation sleeves or heating tape
• Remove and drain all outdoor water hoses
• Wrap outdoor faucets with towels, rags, or foam covers
• Drain and turn off your lawn sprinkler system
• If you have a clothes washer in an unheated garage, turn off its water supply
• Locate your main water shut-off valve so you know where it is in case of emergency

Seal and Insulate

• Inspect your home for gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and where pipes enter the house
• Seal these openings to prevent cold air infiltration
• Check insulation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces where pipes are located

Prepare Your Property

• Store lawn equipment in a garage or shed and drain the gas
• Bring outdoor furniture and decorations inside or secure them properly
• Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams
• Trim overhanging tree branches that could break under ice weight
• Bring pets indoors

If You Are Leaving Town: Before departing, turn off your main water supply at the shut-off valve and leave your heat on at a minimum of 55°F. Never turn your heat off completely if freezing temperatures are expected.

During the Freeze: Active Protection

Keep Heat Circulating

• Maintain a consistent indoor temperature of at least 55°F throughout your home
• Open cabinet doors under sinks, especially those on exterior walls, to allow warm air to reach pipes
• Open interior doors to promote air circulation

Let Faucets Drip

During extreme cold, allow both hot and cold water faucets to drip slightly, especially those on exterior walls or in unheated areas. Running water helps prevent pipes from freezing by relieving pressure in the system. Check with your local water authority for any water usage restrictions during the storm.

Monitor Your Home

• Check your home’s temperature regularly, especially if you have a smart thermostat
• Listen for unusual sounds that might indicate frozen pipes
• Be alert for signs of water leaks or pipe damage

If Pipes Freeze: Immediately turn off your main water shut-off valve to prevent flooding once pipes thaw. Then contact a licensed plumber for assistance.

Emergency Preparedness

• Charge all electronic devices and have backup batteries ready
• Stock up on non-perishable food and water for at least three days
• Have flashlights, candles, and matches easily accessible
• Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for weather updates
• Download the CobbGov app for real-time county emergency updates
• Have a safe plan for alternative heating

Generator Safety: Operate generators outdoors only, at least 20 feet from your home, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use ovens, grills, or generators indoors.

Special Considerations for Vacant Properties

Vacant homes, rental properties, and listings face increased risk during winter storms.

• Set thermostats to at least 55°F
• Arrange for someone to check on the property during and after the storm
• Use smart home technology to monitor temperature and leaks remotely
• Notify your insurance agent that the property will be vacant
• Document the property’s condition with photos before the storm

Insurance companies may deny claims for vacant properties that were not properly heated or maintained.

After the Storm: Assessment and Recovery

• Inspect your home for damage to pipes, roof, and foundation
• Document damage with photos
• Contact your insurance company immediately if damage is discovered
• Watch for falling ice from roofs and trees
• Avoid roof repairs while ice is present

Travel Safety Reminder

State and county officials urge residents to avoid travel once winter conditions begin. Ice-covered roads make driving extremely dangerous, and Monday morning commutes may be severely impacted.

If travel is unavoidable, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with blankets, water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and a phone charger.

Space Intown at The Agency Is Here to Help

At Space Intown at The Agency, we are more than real estate professionals. We are neighbors and community partners. Winter storms highlight how important home maintenance and preparedness are in protecting your investment.

Whether you are a homeowner winterizing your property, a seller with a vacant listing, or someone considering entering the market, we are here to help. If you need contractor recommendations, storm-prep guidance, or insight into how weather events impact property values and maintenance, please reach out.

Stay safe, stay warm, and please check on your neighbors, especially elderly residents who may need help preparing for the storm.