5 Things First-Time Homeowners Wish They Knew Before Winter

3. Why you should winterize your plumbing system

Average cost of repairing burst pipes: $400 to $1,500

When temperatures drop, water inside pipes can freeze, expand, and cause cracks. Once thawed, those cracks can release gallons of water — damaging floors, walls, and personal belongings. 

Our Winter Home Damage Survey found that about 17% of homeowners have experienced frozen or burst pipes, making it one of the top winter home issues.

The risk is even higher in the East South Central region (Tennessee, 

Alabama, Kentucky, and Mississippi), where 31% of homeowners said it was their top problem.

The damage often goes beyond plumbing. Water leaks can ruin drywall, warp flooring, and compromise insulation. Repairing a burst pipe costs an average of $400 to $1,500, while water damage cleanup can increase the total to $2,000² or more.

General prevention tips for homeowners:

• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before freezing temperatures hit. 
• Check pipe insulation regularly.

4. The reality of critical system maintenance in cold weather

Average cost of furnace repairs: $132-$501

When temperatures drop, key home systems—like furnaces and water heaters—work overtime. Without regular servicing, they’re more likely to fail when demand is highest, leading to no heat, frozen pipes, or unsafe temporary fixes like space heaters.

Furnace repairs typically cost $132-$501, averaging $317³, while full replacements or new heat pumps can cost thousands. Regular maintenance helps prevent costly breakdowns and can extend systems by 15-20 years.

General prevention tips for homeowners:

• Replace furnace/heat pump filters every 3 months.
• Lower your water heater temperature to 120°F (if safe).⁴
• Insulate water heaters and hot-water pipes.
• Schedule yearly chimney cleanings to improve airflow and reduce fire risk.

5. Regions where homeowners spend the most on winter repair

Winter weather damage is becoming more widespread across the U.S., even in regions that once saw milder conditions. As climate change intensifies, regions once unaccustomed to harsh winters may face higher repair costs and greater property risks. 

Our Battling the Elements Survey found that winter damage costs vary by region:

• In the Middle Atlantic (e.g., New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania), nearly 33% of homeowners spent $501-$3,000 on winter repairs.
• In the East North Central (e.g., Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin), 14% reported repair bills from $501 to $1,000.
• Even in warmer areas like the South Atlantic (e.g., Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas), 12% spent between $501 and $1,000, and 9% paid more than $1,000.

According to NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Information, two winter storm/cold wave events in a single year caused more than $2 billion in damage.⁵ 

Expenses can quickly go from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Preventive action and timely home maintenance are often your best defense against costly winter surprises.

General prevention tips for homeowners:

• Schedule annual inspections to spot issues early. 
• Take proactive steps in the fall, like sealing air leaks and disconnecting exterior hoses.
• Review your type of homeowners insurance so you know how it covers winter-related damage.

Take on your first winter with confidence 

Winter brings unique challenges for new homeowners, but planning ahead can help you avoid the most costly mistakes. From sealing drafts to keeping major systems in good shape, a little preparation goes a long way toward protecting your home.

At Hippo, we believe proactive steps today create stronger, more resilient homes tomorrow. Get a homeowners insurance quote to explore your options and find the coverage you need for the season ahead.