Winter temperatures in New Jersey and Pennsylvania can put your home's plumbing at risk. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and can cause the pipe to crack or burst. The resulting water damage can be expensive—but will homeowners insurance cover the repairs?
The answer depends on the circumstances and the wording of your policy. Here's what homeowners should know before temperatures drop.
Does homeowners insurance cover frozen pipes?
Many homeowners insurance policies may cover sudden and accidental water damage caused by a burst pipe, subject to the policy's terms, limits, exclusions, and deductible.
Depending on the circumstances, covered damage may include water-damaged floors, walls, furniture, and other belongings. Coverage for repairing the pipe itself may be treated differently from coverage for the resulting water damage.
Insurers may also consider whether you took reasonable steps to prevent freezing. For example, a policy may impose conditions involving maintaining heat in the home or shutting off and draining the water system when a property is vacant for an extended period.
Damage associated with neglect, ongoing leaks, or failure to maintain the property may be treated differently from a sudden, unexpected pipe burst.
The bottom line: Don't assume every frozen-pipe claim is automatically covered. Review your policy and contact your insurance agent if you have questions about your protection.
What should you do if a pipe freezes or bursts?
If you discover a frozen or burst pipe, taking prompt action may help limit the damage.
Shut off the main water supply if it is safe to do so.
Contact a qualified plumber to assess the problem.
Move furniture and belongings away from standing water when possible.
Photograph or video the damage before cleanup, if it is safe.
Keep receipts for emergency services and repairs.
Notify your insurance company promptly and follow its instructions.
Avoid putting yourself at risk trying to reach a pipe in an icy, flooded, or otherwise unsafe area.
How can you prevent frozen pipes?
A few precautions can help reduce the risk of winter plumbing damage:
Keep your home adequately heated during cold weather, even when traveling.
Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas.
Seal drafts near plumbing located along exterior walls.
Know where your main water shutoff valve is located.
If you'll be away for an extended period, ask a plumber about additional precautions for your home's plumbing.
These steps may help prevent a costly emergency, even if they cannot eliminate the risk entirely.
Review your homeowners insurance before winter
Late fall is a good time to review your homeowners insurance, including your deductible and any limitations affecting water damage.
At Barry Paul Rose Insurance Agency, we help homeowners in New Jersey and Pennsylvania understand their coverage options and identify questions worth addressing before a claim occurs.
Have questions about your homeowners insurance? Contact BPRINS to review your coverage and prepare for the colder months ahead.
Coverage depends on the specific policy, applicable exclusions, and the facts of a loss. This article is for general informational purposes only.
