January of 2025 saw some of the coldest temperatures in the Gulf Coast region in decades. According to data cited by NASA Earth Observatory, “temperatures plunged into the single digits in southern Texas and Louisiana.” For reference, the low temperature on January 22nd at the airport in Baton Rouge was just seven degrees Fahrenheit—the lowest in recorded history.
Extreme cold weather poses some unique challenges in regions that do not typically experience it.
One of the biggest issues is pipe bursts. At Insurance Claim HQ, we have deep experience with pipe burst claims. Here, our New Orleans pipe burst damage lawyers answer some of the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about pipe burst claims.
A Burst Pipe Can Cause Serious Damage
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) explains that a burst pipe happens when a pipe breaks open due to excessive pressure, freezing temperatures, or general corrosion. The results are often catastrophic because water can rush out uncontrollably—thereby flooding and damaging the surrounding area. Pipe bursts can cause serious damage in several different ways, including soaking walls, soaking floors, damaging ceilings, ruining electrical systems, causing structural weakening, and contributing to difficult-to-control mold growth. Freezing weather is the number one cause of sudden, acute pipe bursts. When it freezes, water expands inside the pipe, and that can increase the pressure until it bursts.
Burst Pipe Claims: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes—or at least these policies typically do cover at least some pipe bursts. Indeed, most homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental pipe bursts. With that being said, exclusions can and sometimes do apply. If the damage resulted from poor maintenance or neglect, your claim could be denied. Coverage usually includes the cost of repairs for water damage—but not necessarily the pipe replacement itself. Always review your policy carefully to know your coverage.
Step one is always to stop further water damage. That means shutting off the local—or better, yet main—water supply. Once the situation is under control, you can start to move forward with the claims process. You should carefully document the damage caused by the pipe burst with photos and videos. Document things before any actual cleanup efforts begin. Next, you should contact your insurance company to report the incident and follow their instructions for filing a claim.
It depends. The time limit to file a claim depends on your insurance policy. You should always refer to the specific coverage documents for your particular policy. With that being said, it is typically 30 days or 60 days to initial a burst pipe claim. No matter the specific deadline in your policy, it is generally best to file as soon as possible to avoid delays.
As with other types of property insurance claims, a pipe burst claim could be denied for a wide range of different reasons. Here is an overview of some of the top reasons for denial:
- Lack of Maintenance: If the insurer determines that the pipe bursts due to poor maintenance, corrosion, or long-term leaks, they may deny coverage. Policies typically cover sudden and accidental damage—not preventable issues caused by homeowner neglect.
- Frozen Pipes (Negligence): Many policies exclude damage from frozen pipes if the homeowner failed to take reasonable precautions, such as insulating pipes. These are very complicated cases, and insurers may allege negligence when that’s not the case.
- Gradual Water Damage: Pipe bursts are often covered, but pipe leaks are not. If the insurer finds that the damage resulted from a slow leak over time, they may deny the claim. Homeowners’ insurance usually does not cover long-term water damage.
- Policy Exclusions: Some policies exclude certain types of pipe damage, such as issues related to wear and tear, foundation shifts, or sump pump failures. If your policy has limitations on water damage claims, the insurer may deny all or part of your claim.
- Failure to Report the Damage: You should notify your insurer of a burst pipe in a timely manner. Insurance companies require policyholders to report damage as soon as possible. If you delay filing your claim or fail to mitigate further damage, the insurer may deny it.
You have the right to appeal. If your claim is denied, you should request a written explanation from your insurer detailing the reason. You can appeal the decision with the help of an experienced New Orleans property damage lawyer.
Yes—or at least you can in many cases, most homeowners insurance policies include additional living expenses (ALE) coverage. That coverage can pay for temporary housing and other costs if your home is uninhabitable. For example, ALE coverage can cover hotel stays, food, and other essential expenses while repairs are underway. You should keep all receipts and submit them to your insurer as part of your claim.
Burst Pipe Insurance Claim Tips
Tip #1: Mitigate the Damage as Much as Possible
One of the best things to do when a pipe bursts is to turn off the water as soon as possible. You should mitigate your damages by shutting off the main water supply immediately to stop further flooding. You should also take action to move standing water. Though wait for full repairs.
Tip #2: Notify Your Insurance Company of the Pipe Burst
Your property insurance company should be made aware of the fact that a pipe burst at your home or your business. Most likely, your policy will require notice in a timely manner. Report the incident to your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process.
Tip #3: Carefully Document Your Damages
Unfortunately, a pipe burst can cause extensive damage to your property. It is crucial that you document the damages—all of the damages—in the most comprehensive way possible. The more information you have, the better positioned that you will be to bring a claim.
Tip #4: Be Prepared to Negotiate With the Property Insurance Company
Insurance companies are not on your side. They way to resolve cases for the minimum amount possible—and pipe burst claims are certainly not an exception to the rule. A top-tier property damage lawyer can help you seek the full and fair compensation that you deserve.
Why Trust Our New Orleans Pipe Burst Damage Lawyers
Pipe bursts can cause extreme damage to a home or a business. It is not uncommon for property owners to be left with tens of thousands of dollars (or more) in repair bills and other damages. At Insurance Claim HQ, we are proud to be a law firm that is on the side of homeowners and business owners—not the big insurance companies. A pipe burst is stressful—but it does not have to leave you in pieces. With a proven record of case results in a wide range of complex claims, our New Orleans property insurance lawyers have the experience that policyholders can trust. Initial consultations are free, fully confidential, and carry zero obligations.
Contact Our New Orleans Pipe Burst Insurance Claims Attorney Today
At Insurance Claim HQ, our New Orleans property damage lawyer has the skills and experience to take on all types of pipe burst claims.
If your property suffered major damage due to a pipe burst, we can help you navigate the insurance claims process. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case review. We represent homeowners and commercial property owners in pipe burst claims in New Orleans and throughout the Gulf Coast region.
