The polar vortex is once again headed to many areas of the United States. Temperatures in many states will fall below zero, and only a few states will get above freezing. January has already registered record cold temperatures for many states east of the Rockies, and more cold is on its way. Current predictions are that more than 105 million people across 40 states could experience subzero temperatures in the next two weeks. Add wind chill to the bitterly cold temperatures, and much of the country will be dangerously cold. There are many concerns for property owners when the temperature gets this low.

One of the primary concerns is frozen pipes. Both the homeowners and the commercial property forms require insureds to either maintain heat in the building or drain the pipes and turn off the water. But what exactly is “maintaining heat” in the building? Neither policy mentions a preferred temperature that is known to keep pipes safe. The Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) and other references recommend setting the thermostat at no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Even though water freezes at 32 degrees, setting the heat above 32 but below 55 degrees will not guarantee that pipes, especially those in an unheated garage or uninsulated attic, won’t freeze. If the building isn’t well insulated, it may be wise to open cupboard doors and let the water run a little from the faucet when the temperatures dip below freezing.

Though winter is not the best time to clean the gutters, it would be a good idea to make sure the gutters are clear of debris, or at least remove the snow from the roof, especially if they weren’t cleaned earlier in the season and snow is expected. When snow is on the roof and the melting snow can’t drain properly, it may refreeze and back up into the house, causing damage. Insulating the attic can also help prevent heat loss, as well as maintaining even temperatures across the roof. When some parts of the roof are warmer than others, the warmer areas may start melting the snow, but the colder areas will let it refreeze, leading to a possible ice dam.