Answers

There are new shingles on the market that are hail resistant, specifically GAF.  And, Owens Corning TruDef shingles have a fantastic SureNail strip that gives them extra strength agains high winds.  If you are building a home, there are extra steps, especially strapping sidewalls to rafters that can be taken.  Miami-Dade Florida building department has some great ideas to this.  Depending on where you live, you may face either flood/storm surge, Hail, tornadoes or snow load issues particular to your geographic location.  If you go to your local building department they may be helpful.

John,

1. Surrounding trees should be trimmed back and prepared to handle the snow load.
2. Make sure windows and doors are caulked.
3. Clear items away from the side of the that could trap snow drifts and allow for melting agains the side of the home.
4. Make sure the attic ventilation is adequate and insulation levels are up to code to help mitigate ice dam formation
5. If the home has a crawlspace, make sure pipes are insulated and prepared for the temparature lows.

If you can post up a picture of the home I can give you more acute observations. 

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