Dealing with property damage after a pipe burst is stressful, especially if your insurance company is challenging your claim, making lowball offers, or refusing to pay it.
Louisiana law protects claimants seeking payment for costly water damage. So do the experienced pipe burst claim attorneys at Insurance Claim HQ.
Our trusted legal team can fight for the coverage you deserve under your insurance policy’s terms. Our lawyers take a compassionate yet no-nonsense approach to property damage claims.
You purchased insurance to protect yourself. Now the company should be delivering on its promise to provide pipe burst insurance coverage. Excuses, delays, and attempts to minimize your claim won’t cut it.
Our law firm has decades of experience handling property damage claims and enforcing the rights of policyholders across Louisiana.
If you need help with your pipe burst insurance claim, contact ICHQ today for a free consultation.
What To Do If a Pipe Bursts
If a pipe bursts on your property, you should begin cleanup promptly to minimize the damage.
Shut off the main water line and, if it’s safe, turn off electricity to the affected area. Document the damage with photos or videos of the burst pipe and the surrounding area before you make any repairs. Remove standing water if you can do so safely.
Contact your insurance company to report the loss and follow up in writing. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary housing so you can include them in your claim.
Taking these steps can help you use coverage effectively to fully address the water damage.
Common Causes of Pipe Burst Damage in Louisiana
Pipes can burst for many reasons, especially during cold weather or periods of high water use. Some common causes of burst pipes include:
- Poor installation or aging materials that weaken pipe walls and split under pressure
- Shifting soil or foundations that put stress on underground water pipes
- Sudden spikes in water pressure that overwhelm weak pipe sections
- Poor maintenance, such as failing to insulate exposed pipes or repair small leaks
- Tree root intrusions
- Frozen pipes due to freezing temperatures
- A malfunctioning pressure-reducing valve
- Improperly connected garden hoses that lead to pressure buildup
- Corrosion due to mineral buildup in Louisiana’s hard water supply
A burst pipe can compromise the structural integrity of a dwelling, making it critical to make prompt repairs.
Why Insurance Companies Deny Pipe Burst Claims
Insurance agents might try to limit your payout in several ways, including:
- Arguing that you failed to maintain the home’s plumbing system to prevent burst pipes
- Saying that the pipe damage occurred over an extended period, not suddenly
- Pointing out policy exclusions that limit your recovery
- Undervaluing the cost of repairs or claiming that the damage doesn’t meet your deductible to reduce or delay payment
When disputes arise, it’s wise to seek guidance from an experienced property damage lawyer. Your attorney can review your policy, spot weaknesses in the insurer’s reasoning, and verify that they are complying with your rights under Louisiana law.
What To Do If Your Pipe Burst Claim Is Denied or Delayed
If your insurer denies or stalls your claim, do not give up.
Review your policy carefully to understand what coverage is applicable. Gather all your documentation, including photos, receipts, and correspondence with the adjuster. Keep records of repair estimates to support the full cost of your losses.
Bring everything you have to a pipe burst insurance claim lawyer. They can step in, challenge the insurer’s decision, and work to secure the full compensation your policy allows.
Key Evidence That Strengthens Your Pipe Burst Claim
Strong evidence makes a huge difference in whether your burst pipe claim gets fair consideration. Types of evidence that could support your case include:
- Photos of the burst pipe and water damage
- Videos of the flooding or its immediate aftermath
- Repair invoices or contractor estimates
- Receipts for emergency services or temporary housing
- Records of communication with your insurance adjuster
- Maintenance records for plumbing or prior repairs
Filing a Pipe Burst Insurance Claim in Louisiana
Start your pipe burst insurance claim by notifying your insurer as soon as possible after the damage occurs.
Provide clear details about what happened and submit photos or videos that show the extent of the damage. Keep receipts for any temporary repairs or lodging, as you may be eligible for reimbursement for these expenses. Follow up on everything in writing to maintain a record of all communication.
Contact a lawyer if you encounter delays, denials, or pushback from your insurance company.
How Our Attorneys Handle Pipe Burst Insurance Claims
ICHQ fights for policyholders across Louisiana when insurers underpay, stall, or reject claims. Our attorneys handle property damage claims every day, so we understand the disruption and financial upheaval that a burst pipe can create. Helping you regain stability and security is at the heart of what we do.
Our national law firm has decades of experience negotiating with insurance companies and has recovered over $1 billion for our clients.
We’re aggressive when we need to be — because your well-being matters, and unfair insurance disputes should not threaten that.
FAQs About Pipe Burst Insurance Claims
Pipe bursts can leave property owners with many questions about what their insurance does and does not cover.
Understanding how insurers typically handle these situations can help you prepare for the claims process and avoid surprises. Below are answers to a few of the most common questions ICHQ receives about pipe burst insurance claims in Louisiana.
Will my insurance cover damage to my personal belongings after a pipe bursts?
Most homeowners policies include personal property coverage for items damaged by sudden and accidental pipe bursts.
This can extend to items like furniture, clothing, and electronics. Coverage depends on the terms of your policy, so review your limits and exclusions closely. Some policies reduce payouts for older items based on their depreciated value rather than providing full replacement cost coverage.
Understanding whether your personal property coverage uses actual cash value or replacement cost is essential when filing an insurance claim.
Can I choose my own contractor for repairs?
Many insurance carriers maintain lists of preferred contractors, but in most cases, you have the right to hire your own.
When you choose your own contractor, you can control the quality of the work and get independent estimates. If you choose this route, keep all written bids and invoices so you can submit them as part of your claim.
Will filing a pipe burst claim raise my insurance premiums?
Your insurer might raise your premiums after certain claims.
It depends on your carrier’s practices and your history as a policyholder. One claim alone does not always trigger a rate increase.
However, if your insurer views you as higher-risk because you have made multiple claims or received significant payouts, you could face higher premiums when your policy renews. You can review your policy and speak with a lawyer to evaluate this risk before filing a claim.
