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What to Do If Your Pipes Freeze or Burst This Winter

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January is peak season for frozen and burst pipes, especially during extended cold spells. Knowing what to do quickly can help minimize damage and speed up recovery.

Here’s a simple guide to protect your home and understand how insurance may respond.

Signs Your Pipes May Be Frozen

Watch for:

  • No water or reduced water flow
  • Frost on exposed pipes
  • Strange odors from drains
  • Unusual sounds when turning on faucets

Frozen pipes can burst without warning once temperatures rise.

What to Do If a Pipe Bursts

If a pipe bursts:

  1. Shut off the main water supply immediately
  2. Turn off electricity in affected areas if safe to do so
  3. Open faucets to relieve pressure
  4. Move valuables away from water
  5. Document damage with photos and videos
  6. Contact a licensed plumber and your insurance agent

Acting quickly can significantly reduce repair costs and damage.

How Homeowners Insurance Typically Responds

Most homeowners policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe. Coverage may include:

  • Damage to walls, floors, and ceilings
  • Damaged personal property
  • Cleanup and drying services

However, damage caused by long-term neglect or lack of heat may not be covered—making prevention essential.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

To reduce risk:

  • Keep your thermostat set consistently
  • Insulate exposed pipes
  • Let faucets drip during extreme cold
  • Open cabinet doors to allow warm air circulation
  • Shut off and drain exterior water lines

Final Thoughts

Frozen pipes are stressful—but preparation and quick action can make all the difference. Reviewing your coverage before winter storms hit ensures fewer surprises if a claim occurs.