Massachusetts home risk profile

You're flying into Boston this weekend for a closing, and the seller's disclosure mentions a sump pump. That's your first clue. In Massachusetts, the two hazards you should actually lose sleep over are winter storms and flooding. Winter storms rate a 4 out of 5 here. That means nor'easters, ice dams, and power lines down for days. Flooding rates a 3 out of 5. It's not just the coast. Inland rivers and heavy rain can put water in your basement too.

Hurricanes and severe storms also rate a 3 out of 5. They often arrive with the same weather systems that bring winter storms, just in different seasons. The rest of the state's hazard list — tornadoes, earthquakes, extreme heat, drought, wildfires, landslides — falls lower. Some are rare. But you don't need to fear everything. You need to plan for the top two.

If I had one afternoon before closing, I'd pull the FEMA flood map for the address and check whether the property sits in a high-risk zone. Then I'd call a roofer to look at the attic and ice dam history. Flood insurance is separate from your standard homeowners policy. Ask your agent about the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and check the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency for local preparedness tips. That's your first line of defense.

Massachusetts is not a disaster zone. Most homes here do fine. But winter storms and flooding are the two risks that cost homeowners the most in repairs and insurance claims. You can't change the weather. You can change what you know before you sign. Get the flood map. Inspect the roof. Talk to your insurer. Do that, and you'll sleep better when the first nor'easter hits.