A broken pipe can quickly result in extensive water damage. Although most homeowners insurance providers consider plumbing maintenance the responsibility of a policyholder, coverage is typically available for the resulting water damage. Find out more about what insurance may cover in the event of a flood caused by a pipe break.
The Cause of Breakage
A policyholder must provide evidence of all of the maintenance necessary to prevent pipes from breaking. This may include:
• Recent inspections by licensed professionals
• Replacing old pipes
• Preventative measures
If a homeowner can demonstrate that he or she has done everything necessary to prevent a pipe break, this claim may be covered. Breaks attributable to negligence will probably not be covered.
Water Damage
Water damage occurs rapidly after a pipe breaks. Mitigate the flood by:
• Shutting off the water supply
• Containing the flow
• Contacting a plumber to fix broken pipe
Broken supply lines contain Category One water, which is clean and treated. Leaks involving contaminated Category Two, gray water or Category Three, black water that requires disinfection.
Mitigation and Restoration
Most homeowners insurance policies cover mitigation and restoration of water damage caused by a pipe break. This may involve:
• Removing standing water
• Disinfecting areas exposed to contaminated water
• Promoting drying
• Drawing out moisture with a dehumidifier
These measures can limit the severity of water damage and the potential for secondary damage. Obtain an estimate from a mitigation and restoration service to provide to an adjuster.
Regardless of whether insurance coverage is available for a broken pipe, the resulting water damage should be a covered peril. This is not the case if damage is caused by heavy rains or rising bodies of water, both of which require a separate flood insurance policy. In the event of a pipe break, contact a plumber to fix broken pipe, your insurer, and a cleanup and restoration company in Hattiesburg, MS.
