Burst Pipe Insurance Claims: Will My Insurance Pay for Water Damage?

What Homeowners Need to Know About Frozen Pipes, Water Damage, and Insurance Coverage

Water damage caused by frozen or burst pipes is one of the most common insurance claims following winter weather, particularly in southern states. Homes in these regions are often not constructed or insulated to withstand prolonged freezing temperatures, unlike homes in northern climates where harsh winter conditions are expected.

A frozen pipe can burst suddenly and release large volumes of water into walls, ceilings, floors, and personal property. The result is often extensive water damage that can displace homeowners for weeks or even months. While some losses can be prevented with proper preparation, many frozen pipe losses occur despite reasonable precautions. Knowing how to respond immediately and how to properly file an insurance claim is critical.

This article outlines the critical steps to take when a frozen pipe loss occurs, as well as practical measures homeowners can implement to help prevent this type of damage.

What to Do When You First Discover Frozen Pipe Water Damage

Once water damage is discovered, protecting the insured property becomes a priority. Homeowners insurance policies contain a section commonly titled Duties After a Loss. These duties typically require the policyholder to prevent further damage and to promptly notify the insurance company.

Immediately shut off the main water supply to the home. If you are unable to locate or operate the shut off valve,

contact a licensed plumber and clearly state that this is an emergency and that water needs to be shut off immediately.

If water has reached electrical components, turn off power to the affected areas when it is safe to do so.

Document the Damage for an Insurance Claim

As the policyholder, you carry the burden of proof. The insurance company does not have to prove that the loss occurred. You must document it.

Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas. Do not limit documentation to where the pipe burst or where water first appeared. Photograph everything water came into contact with, including drywall, ceilings, flooring, baseboards, cabinets, furniture, electronics, and personal belongings.

If flooring or carpet appears damp but is not visibly saturated, use paper towels to demonstrate moisture and photograph the results. This can be especially helpful with darker colored carpet.

Take a clear photo of the thermostat. Most insurance policies require that heat be maintained during freezing weather. Failure maintain heat is one of the most common reasons frozen pipe claims are denied. If your power goes out, make sure to document the day and time you lost power.

Water Mitigation and Drying Services

Once the water source has been stopped, contact a licensed and insured water mitigation company. These companies use professional drying equipment to remove moisture and prevent mold growth and secondary damage. If the company cannot immediately respond to your home, make sure to do your best to dry your home. Fans and towels may be all you have. Make sure you photo and video document this.

Do not discard damaged personal property or damaged plumbing items that may be used as evidence to prove the claim until the insurance company or a licensed public adjuster advises you to do so. When items are thrown away prematurely, insurers may argue the items that were damaged cannot be verified or that the item could have been cleaned or repaired rather than replaced.

Filing a Water Damage Insurance Claim

Promptly notifying the insurance company is your contractual duty after a loss. File the claim as soon as you can. I recommend having all invoices from your plumber, mitigation company, and an estimtate from your contractor. Keep in mind, during winter storms it is not uncommon to have to wait a few days to get mitigation teams to your home.

When filing the claim, provide the date the damage was discovered and confirmation that immediate steps were taken to stop further damage. Inform the carrier if the home is not livable and if temporary housing may be required.

For complex water damage claims, it is often beneficial to speak with a licensed public adjuster prior to filing the claim to avoid costly mistakes.

Ensure Your Water Damage Claim Is Properly Paid

This is often the most challenging part of a frozen pipe claim. Insurance adjusters are frequently handling a high volume of claims, especially after widespread freeze events. As a result, important line items are often missed or undervalued within their estimates.

Water damage claims may include mitigation costs, tear out, build back repairs, flooring replacement, cabinetry, contents damage, packouts, content storgage, additional living expenses, and loss of rent for rental properties. Supplemental damage is commonly discovered once repairs begin.

It is critical that all photos, videos, invoices, and contractor estimates are submitted and properly documented. This part can be easily handled by a licensed public adjuster.

Hiring contractors and mitigation companies experienced in insurance restoration is essential, as they understand documentation requirements. However, contractors cannot negotiate or interpret policy coverage. That role is reserved for a licensed public adjuster.

How to Prepare Your Home for Freezing Weather

Preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipe water damage.

Keep the thermostat set at a consistent temperature during cold weather. Have your heating system serviced before winter arrives. Open cabinets under sinks located on exterior walls to allow warm air circulation. Insulate exposed pipes in attics, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls. Disconnect outdoor hoses and insulate exterior faucets.

During extreme cold, allow faucets to stream rather than drip. Know the location of your main water shut off valve and keep the necessary tool nearby. If you are frequently away, have a trusted neighbor who can assist in an emergency.

Key Takeaways for Pipe Burst Insurance Claims

Frozen pipe water damage claims are complex and often overwhelming for homeowners to handle alone. While working with contractors familiar with insurance restoration is important, having a licensed public adjuster can make a significant difference in the outcome of a claim.

A licensed public adjuster can help navigate policy language, document the full scope of damage, address contents losses, and ensure additional living expenses or loss of rent are properly considered. If you are currently dealing with a frozen pipe loss or need assistance filing a water damage insurance claim, professional guidance early in the process can help ensure the claim is properly documented and positioned for a fair outcome. If you have questions or need assistance with a frozen pipe claim, feel free to contact our office for a free consultation.