Losing a loved one is emotionally overwhelming. In the midst of grief, families are often faced with urgent responsibilities, including what to do with the home they left behind. In the Buffalo and Niagara region, winter conditions are not mild inconveniences. They are a serious risk to any vacant property.
At Evergreen Home Buyers and Estate Services, we regularly help families across Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Tonawanda, and the surrounding suburbs who are managing estate homes during the winter months. This guide is designed to help you protect the property, avoid costly damage, and make clear decisions during a difficult time.
Buffalo winters are defined by lake effect snow, freezing temperatures, and long periods of subzero wind chills. When a home sits vacant in these conditions, problems develop quickly.
Common winter risks in Western New York include:
- Frozen and burst pipes from prolonged cold snaps
- Furnace failures during heavy snow events
- Ice dams and roof leaks from freeze thaw cycles
- Break ins at visibly vacant homes
- Mold growth from unnoticed moisture
Insurance carriers often require special vacant property endorsements or regular inspections. If a home is left unattended, coverage can be denied after a loss.
Step 1: Secure the Property Immediately
In Buffalo’s older neighborhoods and first ring suburbs, vacant homes can attract unwanted attention. Securing the property right away is essential.
Immediate security steps:
- Change all exterior door locks
- Secure or replace any broken windows
- Remove hidden spare keys
- Install basic exterior lighting or motion sensors
- Let a trusted neighbor know the home is vacant
Many Buffalo area families also arrange for a property watch service, especially during heavy snow periods.
Step 2: Protect the Plumbing System
In Western New York, frozen pipes are one of the most common and expensive problems in estate properties.
A single burst pipe can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage.
Basic winterization checklist:
- Shut off the main water supply.
- Drain all water lines and fixtures.
- Flush toilets and remove excess water.
- Add plumbing antifreeze to sinks, toilets, and floor drains.
- Shut off and drain the water heater if the home will remain vacant.
Many local plumbers and property preservation companies in the Buffalo area offer full winterization services.
Step 3: Address the Heating System
If the water is not shut off, the heating system must stay operational.
Recommended actions:
- Schedule a furnace inspection with a local HVAC contractor
- Set the thermostat to at least 55°F
- Replace furnace filters
- Consider a smart thermostat or temperature monitoring device
Older homes in Buffalo often have aging furnaces or boiler systems. A simple inspection can prevent a major failure during a cold snap.
Step 4: Maintain the Exterior Through Snow Season
uffalo’s heavy snowfall can quickly make a home look abandoned if the exterior is not maintained.
Exterior maintenance tasks:
- Arrange for regular snow removal
- Clear walkways to avoid city violations
- Clean gutters before major snowfall
- Check the roof for ice dams
- Remove outdoor hoses and furniture
In many Buffalo municipalities, unshoveled sidewalks can result in fines, even for vacant homes.
Step 5: Handle Mail, Utilities, and Insurance
Administrative tasks are just as important as physical maintenance.
Key steps:
- Forward mail to the executor or family member
- Notify the insurance company the home is vacant
- Keep gas and electric active if the heat is on
- Cancel unnecessary services
- Arrange regular property checks
Some insurers in Western New York require documented inspections every 7 to 14 days for vacant properties.
When Selling May Be the Simplest Option
Many families choose to sell the property as is rather than manage it through months of snow, cold, and uncertainty.
Evergreen Home Buyers and Estate Services works with families across:
- Buffalo
- Niagara Falls
- Tonawanda
- Amherst
- Cheektowaga
- North Tonawanda
- West Seneca
- Lockport and surrounding towns
We specialize in:
- Purchasing estate homes in any condition
- Handling cleanouts and unwanted belongings
- Covering closing costs
- Flexible timelines that work with probate
Our goal is to remove the burden so families can focus on what matters most.
Need Help With an Estate Property This Winter?
Need Help With an Estate Property This Winter?
If you are responsible for a home after a loved one’s passing and are unsure what to do next, Evergreen can help.
We offer:
- Free, no obligation property consultations
- Guidance on winterizing and securing the home
- Fast, fair cash offers
- A simple, local closing process
Reach out today to learn how we can support you and your family during this time.
