Freeze Preparation Checklist

Before Temperatures Drop

• Insulate or wrap all exposed pipes, hose bibs, and irrigation valves.

• Disconnect garden hoses and fully drain exterior spigots.

• Shut off and drain irrigation systems if not already winterized.

• Ensure attic access points are closed and weather-sealed to reduce cold air intrusion.

• Confirm garage doors close fully and seal properly.

• Close crawlspace vents where applicable.

Inside Your Home

• Set thermostats to a reasonable temperature, even if you plan to be away.

• Open cabinet doors under sinks (kitchen and bathroom) to allow warm air circulation around plumbing.

• Let faucets drip slightly during the coldest overnight hours.

• Locate and confirm access to your main water shut-off valve.

• Use space heaters safely—never unattended and kept clear of combustible materials.

If You Are Leaving Town

• Do not turn heat off completely.

• Ask a neighbor or property manager to periodically check your unit.

• Confirm emergency contact information on file with management is current.

For Community & Common Areas

• Verify freeze protection on common-area plumbing, fire suppression systems, boilers, and mechanical rooms.

• Inspect risers, pump rooms, and utility closets for exposure risks.

• Clear snow and ice from drains to prevent ice damming and interior water intrusion during thaw.

• Confirm emergency access procedures for vendors if issues arise after hours.

 Important Note on Emergency Response & Mitigation

• During widespread freeze events, emergency mitigation contractors are often quickly inundated and response times can be significantly delayed.

• If you need assistance, Hammersmith has proactively coordinated with trusted, pre-vetted vendors who are prepared to respond as conditions allow.

• Management teams are being provided direct contact pathways to these vendors to help streamline response and reduce delays if mitigation is required.

• This proactive coordination helps communities:

• Access qualified vendors faster
• Reduce secondary damage from delayed response
• Maintain organized documentation for insurance purposes

If a Pipe Freezes or Bursts

• Isolate leak immediately.

• Notify management or emergency maintenance right away.

• Avoid electrical hazards in wet areas.

• Document visible damage with photos once it is safe to do so.