2+ day, 23+ hour ago (740+ words) Before you depart for your winter retreat, ensure you're prepared for any surprises that might arise, or else you could be on the hook for repairs. Winters in the south can be spectacular. There's nothing like having the sun kiss your cheeks, forgetting the bone-chilling conditions you left for the tropical oasis you're currently enjoying. But as snowbirds know, your home is left behind and has to deal with any harsh winter conditions it encounters. And if you return home and find damage, you might be in for another surprise: Your provider might not cover it. Because of that, you'll want to address these common insurance gaps before taking off for the winter. Say you return home after a restful season, only to discover some minor damage from a leaky roof shingle. No worries, you call your home insurance carrier…...