Preventing Basement Flooding from Winter Ice in New England

New England winters bring more than just snow and freezing temperatures—they can also bring unexpected basement flooding. One of the biggest culprits? Ice buildup. At Barney Insurance Agency, we know how devastating water damage can be for homeowners, especially when it happens during the winter to spring phase of the year.

Basement flooding in winter often occurs due to ice dams, frozen soil, and clogged gutters, leading to costly repairs and potential insurance claims. The good news? With the right preventative measures, you can reduce the risk of winter flooding and protect your home.

How Does Ice Lead to Basement Flooding?

Ice Dams on Your Roof - Ice dams form when heat from your home causes snow on the roof to melt, only for the water to refreeze at the edges. As this cycle repeats, ice builds up, preventing proper drainage and forcing water under your shingles. This moisture can seep down into walls and eventually into your basement.
Frozen Soil Preventing Drainage - During deep freezes, the ground becomes so solid that melting snow and rainwater cannot absorb into the soil. This excess water pools around your foundation, increasing the likelihood of leaks and basement flooding.
Clogged or Frozen Gutters and Downspouts - If gutters and downspouts are blocked with ice, melting snow has nowhere to go. This water can spill over the edges and accumulate near your foundation, eventually making its way into your basement.
Sump Pump Failure - Many New England homeowners rely on sump pumps to keep their basements dry. However, if the discharge line freezes, water cannot be expelled properly, leading to basement flooding even if your sump pump is working.

How to Prevent Winter Basement Flooding

Taking the right precautions before and during the winter months can help prevent costly flood damage. Here are some steps you can take:

✅ Clear Snow Away from Your Foundation – Shovel snow at least 5 feet away from your home to prevent melting water from pooling around your basement walls.

✅ Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear – Before winter, clean out leaves and debris from your gutters. Install downspout extensions to direct water at least 10 feet away from your foundation.

✅ Prevent Ice Dams – Insulate your attic to keep heat from escaping through the roof. Proper ventilation and heated roof cables can also reduce the risk of ice dam formation.

✅ Seal Foundation Cracks – Inspect your basement for any small cracks and seal them with waterproofing materials to keep water out.

✅ Ensure Your Sump Pump is Winter-Ready – Test your sump pump before winter hits. Consider installing a freeze-resistant discharge pipe to prevent water backup.

✅ Improve Basement Waterproofing – Invest in waterproofing solutions, such as interior drainage systems, a sump pump backup battery, or exterior foundation sealants.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Basement Flooding?

Standard homeowners insurance typically does NOT cover flooding from melting snow or water seepage through the foundation. However, you may be covered if your flooding is due to:

✔ A burst pipe from freezing temperatures.

✔ A sump pump failure, if you have a sump pump rider on your policy.

✔ Sudden and accidental water damage from ice dams or roof leaks.

For protection against external flooding, flood insurance is a separate policy you may need. If you're unsure what your current policy covers, Barney Insurance Agency can help you review your options and ensure you’re fully protected!

Get the Right Protection for Your Home

At Barney Insurance Agency, we specialize in helping New England homeowners find the right insurance solutions to protect their properties from unexpected winter damage. Don’t wait until you’re dealing with a flooded basement—contact us today for a policy review!

📞 Call us: 603-523-4407

📍 Visit us: 1188 US-4, Canaan, NH 03741

📧 Email us: info@barneyinsurance.com

Let’s make sure your home stays safe and dry this winter into spring!