Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Damage From Frozen Pipes? 

Winter can bring many dangerous and unpredictable conditions that may impact your home. Frigid temperatures, heavy winds, ice and snow can all inflict significant damage. One particularly vulnerable part of many homes are their plumbing and sewer systems. That’s why it’s crucial to understand how your homeowners insurance coverage may function as it pertains to frozen and damaged pipes.

Coverage Basics

Homeowners insurance typically covers sudden and accidental water damage, which may include damage from burst pipes.

This means that if your pipes freeze and burst, causing water damage to your home, you may be able to rely on your policy to cover the cost of repairs and water damage remediation. However, there are important conditions and exclusions to be aware of.

Preventive Measures

Insurance companies generally expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to prevent damage. This includes maintaining adequate heating in the home, insulating pipes and shutting off the water supply if the home will be unoccupied for an extended period.

Failure to take these preventative measures could result in a claim being denied, thus leaving you to manage the messy and expensive aftermath of a burst pipe out of pocket.

Policy Exclusions

It’s important to read your policy carefully, as some policies may have specific exclusions related to water damage.

For example, your claim might be denied if the damage is due to negligence or lack of maintenance. Additionally, some policies may not cover damage if the home is unoccupied for a certain period, typically 30 days or more.

This may be particularly relevant if you own and enjoy vacation homes, as being away for the winter and lacking adequate coverage could easily lead to financial ruin.

Additional Coverage Options

You might want to consider additional coverage options if you live in an area prone to severe cold. Some insurance companies offer endorsements or riders that provide extra protection for water damage, including damage from frozen pipes.

These can be particularly valuable if your home is at higher risk of such incidents.

Get the Right Coverage

Contact Crume-Evans Insurance today to learn more about home insurance coverage and ensure your policy fits your needs.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.