What Homeowners Should Know About Broken Pipes

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Rusted pipes can cause problems in your property

A burst pipe can cause homes in Mcdowell Mountain, AZ, to flood in a short period of time. Dealing with the effects of a broken pipe can be overwhelming but learning about broken pipes before an issue occurs can be helpful.

What Causes Pipe Issues?

There are a variety of issues that can plague your home’s pipes. Common causes of pipe problems include:

• Rusted or old pipes
  
• Cold temperatures
  
• Improperly installed pipes
  
• A sudden increase in your pipes’ water pressure
  

What Are Common Types of Damage and How Is It Resolved? 

A burst pipe can result in various types of damage in your home. Mold growth is a common issue in homes that have had pipe breaks. Additionally, building materials often deteriorate after a pipe break, and laminate surfaces, drywall and subfloors may need to be replaced. It’s often helpful for homeowners to contact flood damage restoration professionals and a plumber after the damage has occurred. A plumber can fix broken pipe and examine other pipes to check for widespread problems. Restoration experts can focus on mitigating the damage that has already occurred and can help to restore furniture, electronics and other items.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Broken and Leaking Pipes?

Though insurance coverage may vary with individual policies, the majority of home insurance policies will generally cover the costs of broken or leaking pipes. Though some policies may not cover the costs of damage if it occurs slowly over time, most insurance companies will cover sudden breaks or leaks. To ensure you are fairly compensated, it can be helpful to provide your insurance company with documentation of the damage.

When a broken pipe results in a flood in your home, you may be unsure what to do next. Knowing the causes of pipe breaks, the damage that could occur as a result of a break and what your insurance will likely cover can offer you peace of mind after a burst pipe in your home.