Cold weather can freeze pipes, causing costly water damage at your home or business.
If you suspect you have a frozen pipe – you’ve turned on the faucet, but no water comes out – call a qualified plumber immediately. Shut off the main water valve and leave the faucets open until repairs are made.
If a pipe has burst, take the necessary steps to prevent further damage, and contact your insurance agent to file a claim. Damage from burst water pipes is covered under many homeowner and commercial insurance policies, provided you have taken reasonable precautions as specified by your policy. You can prevent pipes from freezing by:
Maintaining heat to assure temperatures stay above 40 degrees
Repairing and sealing windows or doors that could allow cold air to reach indoors
Sealing walls and attics to prevent airflow around pipe openings
Increasing insulation wherever pipes run
Taking special care to monitor water-based fire protection systems
Allowing faucets to drip to help prevent freezing if water cannot be turned off and drained
Monitor buildings closely to make sure heating systems are operating. For example, if your commercial building or home is unoccupied for a weekend or other extended period, have someone check your property to ensure that the heating and plumbing systems are working properly. Some monitored alarm systems can provide an alert via email or text when the temperature drops: a possible sign of heating system failure.
For further winter tips check out The Federal Emergency Management Agency for Winter Storms & Extreme Cold at https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.
For all insurance questions and inquiries, contact Flaugh Insurance. Flaugh Insurance is an independent, family owned, local agent who writes with several national carriers. We can service all of your insurance needs no matter where you are located – Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, Stevensville, New Buffalo, Hartford, Coloma, Watervliet, Berrien Springs, and many more! Call our office today to review your insurance at 269-925-0611 or visit Flaugh.com to fill out a FREE quote form 24/7!