The Aftermath of Bursting Pipes

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Burst pipe in a Prospect Height, IL home

Dealing with water damage in Prospect Heights, IL, can be a homeowner’s nightmare. When it’s cold outside, water can freeze and expand, leading to bursting pipes and a flooded home. Cleanup can be expensive. Thankfully, homeowner’s insurance can help with the financial burden, and there are a few things you can do to help make the process easier.

Emergency Repairs

In general, you want to wait for your homeowner’s insurance company to approve your claim before you start the main cleanup process or attempt to fix the broken pipe. However, there are a few simple things you can do to help prevent further damage:

• Remove excessive water.
  
• Turn off the water supply to your home.
  
• Take valuable items that have not been damaged and move them to a safer location.
  
  

Check Your Policy

Homeowner’s insurance policies can vary widely when it comes to what is covered. For example, your policy may include damage from bursting pipes but not from a washing machine that malfunctioned. Your best bet is to read your policy yourself so you are aware of what your coverage is.

Have Proper Documentation

Documentation is a crucial step when you are making a water claim. Consider taking photographs and video when necessary to show the extent of the damage. A photo of the room from before the damage occurred can also be helpful if you have one handy. Be sure to include any receipts you have for items that have been damaged or destroyed. If, during your emergency repairs, you had to rent equipment or buy any supplies, keep track of your receipts so you can be reimbursed for them. Any documentation you can provide will likely help with the claim process.

These things can help make the process of your water damage repair from bursting pipes go more smoothly. Emergency repairs can prevent further damage, knowledge of your policy prevents misunderstandings, and documentation should help with the claim process. Hopefully, you will be able to have the damage repaired quickly and have life return to normal.