The Quick Answer: Usually, Yes—But There’s a Catch
If a pipe bursts in your Cambridge home this winter, your homeowner’s insurance will typically cover the sudden and accidental water damage to your dwelling and contents. This is the essential good news for burst pipe coverage and winter water damage insurance. This coverage includes repairs to the house structure and your personal property (like furniture or electronics), and often covers Additional Living Expenses if you need to temporarily relocate during repairs.
The Crucial Exclusions
Your home insurance is designed to cover unexpected events, not gradual deterioration or neglect. This distinction is critical for frozen or burst pipes:
- Lack of Maintenance: If the pipe burst was the result of a long-standing, slow leak or an issue you failed to fix, the resulting damage may not be covered.
- Unheated Property: If your home is vacant during the freezing season, and you failed to maintain heat or shut off the water supply, the damage from burst pipes may be excluded due to negligence.
Our Expert Advice: Prevention is Your Strong Root
To prevent frozen pipes and ensure your coverage is rock-solid, take these proactive steps:
- Keep the thermostat set at no lower than 13℃
- Open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
- Before a trip, shut off your main water supply and drain the lines.
Bottom Line: We help you prepare for today and tomorrow. Review your policy with your Strong Roots broker to understand the nuances of your coverage and keep your home secure.
