Will Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Frozen Pipes?

Homeowners insurance often covers water damage from a burst pipe, including the cost to dry out your home, repair drywall, and replace flooring. The key is that the damage must be sudden and accidental, not the result of ongoing neglect or a lack of heat in your home.

If a pipe freezes and bursts while you are away, the damage is typically covered, but many policies require you to maintain heat in the home or shut off the water supply if you are gone for an extended period. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Start by calling your insurance company to report the damage. They will ask for details about the incident, such as when you noticed the problem and whether the heat was on. Provide any documentation you have, including photos and a list of damaged items.

An adjuster may visit your home to assess the damage. In the meantime, take steps to prevent further water damage, such as shutting off the water and removing wet items. Keep records of any emergency repairs you make, as these may be reimbursable.

• Take photos of the burst pipe and all water damage before any cleanup.
• Make a list of damaged belongings, including approximate values.
• Save receipts for any supplies you buy to stop the water, like a pipe repair clamp.
• Do not throw away damaged items until the adjuster has seen them.

First, shut off the main water valve to stop the flow. Then, turn off the electricity to any affected rooms if water is near outlets or appliances. Call the pros to extract standing water and begin drying the structure, as quick action limits mold and structural damage.

The pros can also perform leak detection to find hidden leaks and moisture mapping to see how far water has spread. Depending on the damage, you may need structural drying, drywall repair, or flooring removal. Act quickly, and keep your insurance company informed so the claim process goes smoothly.