What to Do if Your Pipes Freeze

Frozen Pipes

• Turn off the water supply. If pipes are frozen and in danger of bursting, you want to stop the additional water flow into the pipes to reduce the potential for further damage.
• Protect your possessions. Move possessions near the frozen pipe to a safe area to prevent damage if it bursts.
• Locate the frozen pipe. Check water flow at faucets to determine if the frozen pipe is isolated in one area, more extensive, or close to where water comes into the home. Feeling along pipes can help to locate the frozen area. Look for bulging.
• Take action to thaw pipes immediately. Be attentive as you thaw pipes because sometimes pinholes or cracks can occur from freezing, and then, upon thawing, leaks become evident. There are many do-it-yourself tips on the internet on how to thaw pipes…search “thawing frozen pipes.” Do some reading in advance, just in case. Be sure to open faucets near the frozen pipe to let steam escape and water flow out. We would recommend that you call a licensed plumber for help.

Burst Pipes

• Turn off the water supply to stop the flow of water. Immediate action can be vital to reducing additional damage. Call the fire department if it’s an emergency, and you don’t know what to do. After the water is off, you can clean up the spill and work to reduce further damage. If a burst pipe is near any electrical switches or fuses, turn the power off at the panel. Never touch anything electrical if it’s wet.
• Clean up, make temporary repairs, and take steps to prevent further damage. An insurance adjuster doesn’t need to see the actual water spill before you start cleaning up. However, the adjuster will want to inspect any damaged items. Documenting damage with pictures and video can be helpful to the process. If the leak involves ceilings being saturated with water, be extra careful of weakened construction that could collapse and cause injury.
• Get professional help. Most of us aren’t skilled enough to make proper repairs, especially if the damage is significant and within walls. A licensed plumber (and perhaps an electrician if electrical is involved) can help you make repairs. A professional water damage restoration company will remove water from your home and ensure the walls are dry to prevent mold problems. Remember, mold cannot survive without moisture. You want to be sure repairs are done correctly to avoid additional damage in the future.
• Call your agent or insurance company as soon as possible. At Murphy Insurance, our claims team is ready to assist you in processing a claim and connecting you with your insurance company. We have an emergency helpline for after-hours claim assistance. You can contact your insurance company directly if you prefer, but be sure to call us, too. Document anything that is damaged and save receipts for what you spend.