Imagine waking up on a frigid winter morning and discovering the pipes in the basement have burst. Unfortunately, it’s a common scenario for some households when the temperatures drop. The good news is homeowners insurance will typically pay for the repair costs in certain cases. To keep you and your house protected this winter, here is a guide on when a policy covers burst pipe damage, why plumbing tends to rupture during freezing weather, and steps to take to prevent these scenarios.

What Causes Pipes to Burst in the Winter?

When the temperature drops into the freeze zone, the water pressure in pipes starts to expand. If the pressure is not released, it can cause the pipes to burst. The plumbing that is most susceptible to ruptures is located in basements, other drafty rooms in the house, and outside. If the pipes aren’t properly insulated in these spots, they tend to get colder faster, which may trigger a rupture.

Is Pipe Damage Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

Most policies will pay for the repair and replacement costs stemming from burst pipes. Depending on the homeowners insurance plan, the coverage will likely extend to furniture, clothing, and other personal possessions damaged by the water leak. As with most claims, the policyholder pays their deductible first and any remaining costs are paid by the insurance provider up to the designated monetary limit.

There are exceptions to what might not be covered. For instance, if it’s determined that the burst pipes occurred due to homeowner neglect, the carrier may reject the claim. Plumbing that shows signs of rust or old age or that wasn’t properly maintained would fall into this category. The key is to check your policy to see what’s covered and what’s not.

How Can You Prevent Burst Plumbing?

If the winter weather is nearing the freezing level, let the faucets drip a little so water pressure doesn’t build up. Remove and store all garden hoses and turn off all outside water valves to keep residual water from freezing and expanding in pipes. Keep exposed plumbing warm by covering it with the proper amount of insulation.

Protect your home and personal property from damage this winter. By following a few easy steps, you can help prevent costly and dangerous pipe bursts. David R Johnson Insurance Agency Inc. in Beech Grove, IN, is the area’s premier firm for budget-friendly and reliable coverage. The firm is proud to partner with State Farm, one of the leading providers of comprehensive homeowners insurance. When you call, count on talking directly to a friendly agent, not a middle man. To learn more about protecting your home year-round, call (317) 782-8858. Visit the website to request a free, no-obligation insurance quote.