If your pipes burst in an ice storm, you should turn off the main water supply, disable electricity if necessary, ease the pressure in the pipes, and get in touch with a plumbing professional. It’s crucial that you move fast to prevent additional damage.
A Houston ice storm damage lawyer can give you more information about the steps you should take to prevent damage to your property and to get compensation for the damage caused by burst pipes and spreading water.
Find Out What to Do if Your Pipes Burst After an Ice Storm
You should take the following steps if an ice storm causes your pipes to burst:
Turn Off the Water
You can minimize the damage caused by burst pipes by finding the main water valve for your building and turning it off. Generally, you have to turn the valve clockwise to stop the flow of water. You can often find this valve:
- By your water meter
- In a utility closet
- In the garage
Reach out to your building maintenance connection or a plumber if you cannot find the valve or cannot figure out how to turn it off.
Turn Off the Electricity
Note that you may not need to take this step in every situation. However, if the water from the burst pipes is close to electrical equipment, breaker boxes, or outlets, you should use the main circuit breaker to turn off the power. Taking this step can help you avoid electrocution.
Relieve the Pressure in the Pipes
You should open both cold and hot water faucets to remove any remaining water from your pipes. Taking this step eases the pressure in the plumbing system and can minimize additional damage.
Get in Touch with a Plumber
You should reach out to a licensed plumbing professional for help if your pipes burst in an ice storm. A plumber can take charge and protect your property from additional damage.
You can review other essential tasks after it warms up with your attorney.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 941-1041
How to Prepare for an Insurance Claim When Your Pipes Burst
You should take the following steps to get ready for your insurance claim after winter weather causes your pipes to burst:
Document All of the Damage
You need to keep records of all the damage to your property. You may need to take pictures of:
- The damage to the pipe
- Standing water
- Damage to your possessions and the property
You should make a list of all your possessions that sustained water damage and keep damaged items for your insurance company to review. You may use all of this evidence when you file a claim for ice storm damage in Houston.
Notify Your Insurance Company of the Damage
You should reach out to your insurance company and let them know about the damage to your pipes and property. You may even request an advance payment if your property needs emergency repairs. An attorney can handle communications with the insurance company on your behalf.
Contact Restoration Experts
You should focus on getting immediate help from restoration specialists after your pipes burst. Restoration crews can begin water extraction and take steps to prevent the growth of mold if you move quickly.
Make sure you keep all the receipts associated with restoration services.
Hire an Attorney
Finally, you should get professional legal help on your side. A lawyer can review your situation and your insurance policy, working quickly to ensure that you have a stronger chance of getting the funds you need to cover the costs of repairing or replacing damaged property.
Your lawyer can also tell you more about what to do when your pipes burst after an ice storm.
Lawyers Help with Issues Related to Insurance Claims
An attorney can help you avoid insurance claim pitfalls that could make it harder for you to secure compensation for your losses. Some property owners make the mistake of:
- Allowing the water to keep running to cause additional damage
- Prematurely getting rid of evidence
- Conducted permanent repairs before resolving issues with the insurance company
- Failing to properly document all property damage
- Admitting fault for the water damage
- Accepting the insurance company’s first settlement offer
Fortunately, you can count on your attorney to help you avoid these potential issues. An attorney can put you first and work tirelessly to represent your best interests after a pipe burst caused by an ice storm.
Click to contact our insurance claims lawyers today
Talk to Us After a Major Winter Storm
Are you wondering what to do when your pipes burst after an ice storm? Our team at Barcus Arenas, PLLC, can immediately explain your next steps and answer any questions that you have about handling the insurance claims process.
Our team has nearly two decades of experience handling insurance companies, and we’re ready to draw on our resources and legal knowledge to assist with your claim. Find out more by reaching out for a free consultation.
Call or text (800) 941-1041 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
