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Freezing weather can wreak havoc across the South, causing burst pipes that result in thousands of dollars in property damage. Filing an insurance claim for burst pipes should be quick and easy, but your insurance company may leave you dealing with extensive delays, a denial, or a lowball offer.

If you’ve suffered a pipe burst in Texas or Louisiana and your insurance company is fighting your claim, Brasher Law is ready to stand up for your rights and help your home or business get back to normal.

Common Causes of Burst Pipes

Most burst pipe claims we see happen due to extreme winter weather. When temperatures drop below freezing, water in your building’s pipes can freeze and expand. The pressure and increased volume from frozen water can cause the pipes to burst.

Beyond weather-related causes, pipes can also burst due to:

  • High water pressure: Excessively high water pressure can strain pipes and lead to bursts.
  • Hard water: Areas with hard water are more susceptible to mineral buildup, which can restrict water flow and contribute to pressure issues.
  • Aging: Pipes naturally degrade over time, eventually causing leaks or bursts.
  • Natural disasters: Earthquakes or nearby construction can cause pipes to shift and become stressed.
  • Tree roots: Tree roots can wrap around underground pipes, putting pressure on them over time.

That said, not all of these causes are covered by insurance.

What To Do if a Pipe Bursts in Your House

Whether you have one or multiple burst pipes, your main priority is to stop the water flow and prevent further damage.

You can prepare for emergencies by taking the following steps:

  1. Shut off your home’s water main to stop flooding.
  2. Turn off electricity at the breaker if water is near outlets or fixtures.
  3. Drain the pipes to relieve pressure.
  4. Remove standing water using towels, fans, or a wet/dry vacuum.
  5. Document everything. Take photos and videos of the damage for your insurance company.
  6. Call a plumber for emergency repairs.
  7. Contact your insurance agent or log into your insurer’s website to file a claim.

Even with quick action, a burst pipe can still cause significant damage, including the need for pipe replacements, flooring and carpet repairs, warped ceilings, drywall damage, and ruined personal belongings.

Is a Burst Pipe Covered by Homeowners’ Insurance?

Yes—if a pipe bursts due to a sudden and accidental event, such as a winter storm in Texas, homeowners’ insurance will generally cover resulting water damage under dwelling or personal property coverage. If you must move out of your home during repairs, loss-of-use coverage may help pay for your temporary living expenses.

However, some policies require you to maintain adequate heat inside your home. Turning off the heat may lead to a claim denial.

Insurance also typically does not cover damage caused by aging pipes, tree roots, or general wear and tear.

Filing a Burst Pipe Insurance Claim: Tips for Success

Even a single burst pipe can leave your home without running water and cause extensive property damage.

  • File as soon as possible: Begin the claims process promptly after addressing immediate safety concerns.
  • Keep all invoices: Provide your adjuster with receipts from plumbers, contractors, and any additional living expenses, such as hotel stays.
  • Get a statement from your plumber: Ask for documentation explaining the cause of the pipe burst to help establish coverage.
  • Take inventory: Create a detailed list of damaged belongings for your personal property claim, including furniture, electronics, clothing, and valuables.
  • Include maintenance records: If you’ve had prior repairs or maintenance performed, include those records to demonstrate proper upkeep.

Why Would a Burst Pipe Insurance Claim Be Denied?

Even if you file on time, provide sufficient evidence, and the cause appears to be covered, your claim may still be undervalued or outright denied by your insurance company.

During major winter storms, insurance companies often receive a high volume of claims, costing them millions. To protect their bottom line, they may attempt to reduce payouts by citing reasons such as:

  • Filing the claim too late
  • Alleged negligence, such as failing to maintain adequate heat
  • Wear and tear contributing to the damage
  • Failure to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage

However, you do not have to give in to these tactics. Even if your initial claim is denied, you can still appeal on your own or with the help of a legal team.

A Texas Home Insurance Lawyer for Burst Pipe Claims

You shouldn’t have to spend hours negotiating with your insurance company or pay out of pocket when your policy clearly covers your losses.

As bad faith insurance attorneys, we’ve seen these tactics time and time again—and we know how to fight back. If you’ve experienced a burst pipe and your insurer is disputing your claim, document everything and contact Brasher Law today for a case evaluation.

Your case review is 100% free, and our team will advocate for you every step of the way to help you secure a fair payout.

 

Brasher Law Firm is licensed in TX, LA, CO, UT, OK, and NV