Frozen and burst pipes are one of the most common and costly risks to homeowners during the winter months. The potential for sudden, extensive water damage means that proactively protecting your home is an important step in preventing an expensive insurance claim. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), the average paid claim for water damage and freezing between 2019 to 2023 was $15,400.
Insurance policies often require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage to your property (The Hodge Law Firm, 2025). When it comes to freezing weather, this means actively preparing your home for low temperatures. Failing to take these reasonable steps can put your entire claim at risk, and insurance companies may argue negligence or lack of maintenance. The good news is that preventing a frozen pipe claim is cheaper and easier than dealing with the resulting damage. In fact, water damage makes up over 40% of all homeowner claims filed during the cold winter months, making it the number one risk policyholders face when the temperature drops (Selective Insurance, 2024).
Proper insulation is your first line of defense. Any pipes, especially those located in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, garages, or along exterior walls, are vulnerable. Use foam pipe insulation sleeves, heat tape, or heat cables. Remember that outdoor faucets, garden hose spigots, and irrigation lines are prone to freezing and should be drained and shut off at their indoor valve.
Cold air infiltration can rapidly drop the temperature around pipes, triggering a freeze. Seal any cracks or openings in your exterior walls and foundation, paying extra attention to areas where utility lines (like cable or electric) enter the home. Use caulk to seal small gaps and weather stripping for doors and windows.
If you plan to be away from home during cold weather, do not turn off your heat. While you might save a few dollars by dropping the thermostat, visit the U.S. Department of Energy's Federal Energy Management Program to see the probability of frozen pipes in your area and review where your pipes are located, what material they are made of, and how well insulated those pipes are. Renters should refer to their lease to see if there are thermostat requirements to prepare for freezing (U.S. Department of Energy). If the freeze risk is severe, consider opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing under the sink.
In the event a pipe bursts, quickly turning off the main water valve will dramatically limit the damage. Every homeowner should know the location of their main water shut-off valve and make sure everyone in the household knows how to use it.
A professional Public Adjuster can make sure that property owners are properly indemnified for loss, and that a fair and honest settlement is provided to fix damage. Protect your assets and peace of mind — contact Tiger Adjusters®.
