Even though New York has said farewell to freezing temperatures for the season, your home or commercial building may be vulnerable to a burst pipe. Hot weather causes countless pipes to burst each year, with the resultant hassle, mess, and expensive damage. Chanler Agency, the premier business and property insurance agency in Geneseo, NY, explains what to do if a pipe bursts in your building. 

Steps to Take After a Pipe Bursts

Shut Off Main Valve

The first step is to shut off the main water valve to minimize property damage. The valve is usually brass with a round handle, and it is often found under the kitchen sink, in a utility room, or in the basement. If you cannot locate it, contact your water company for suggestions. Shut off the supply from the water heater if the burst pipe is hot.

Drain the Pipes

After the valve is shut off, run the taps of every sink and flush the toilets a couple of times to drain all water from the pipes. This prevents water still in the pipes from leaking into your house and damaging property.

Contact an Emergency Plumber

Contact a plumber and schedule emergency repairs. You can find a reputable plumber by searching the internet for favorable reviews or asking friends or family for recommendations.

File Insurance Claim

Contact your property insurance agency to file a claim. Describe what happened and explain how the pipe burst, if you know. Be careful that you do not use the word "flood," since flood insurance usually requires a separate rider and is not covered under most property insurance policies. Using the term will simply make your claim more problematic.

Choose a Reputable Contractor

Your insurance adjuster may suggest a contractor. However, you are under no obligation to hire the company your insurer recommends. Choose a contractor you feel comfortable with who has a stellar reputation and experienced staff.

Chanler Agency, the leading business and property insurance agency in New York, maintains locations in Geneseo and Livonia for your convenience. Visit them online to request a free, no-obligation quote, or call (585) 243-5520 to speak with a friendly insurance expert.