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.