Tips for dealing with frozen or burst pipes

8 Jan

When temperatures drop below freezing for a sustained period of time, the pipes at our homes are at risk of freezing unless protected or suitably lagged. The frozen pipe expands and can crack or burst under pressure. This is often not identified until the thaw sets in. Below are some helpful tips on dealing with frozen pipes and claims guidance in the event of a pipe bursting from our claims team.

Dealing With Frozen Pipes

1) Turn off the water supply: Turning it off is the first thing you need to do if you detect a frozen pipe as it will minimize any water damage if a pipe does burst. Contact a plumber for assistance.

2) Protect your possessions: Move any portable possessions away from the affected areas to prevent further damage and cover your electricity mains box if the pipe is close.

3) Find the frozen pipe: Check the flow of water in areas like the bathroom, kitchen, shower rooms and downstairs toilets. Zero, or very little flow, indicates you’re near the frozen area of piping. A frozen pipe will often appear distorted.

4) Thaw out the pipe: Use a hairdryer or hot water bottle to help thaw out the pipe. Never use a blowtorch or anything similar. Open any taps nearest to the frozen pipe as this will let the water melt.

Dealing With Burst Pipes

1) Turn off the water supply as above.

2) Drain your system: You will need to get as much water out of the system as possible to prevent water from spilling through the house. Start by turning on all cold water taps and flushing toilets.

3) Turn off you heating system: You need to turn off the central heating and close down the boiler. Remember to turn off immersion heaters. Once you’ve done this, drain the system further by turning on all hot water taps. Liaise with your heating engineer as necessary.

4) Switch off the electrics if necessary: If a burst pipe is near any electrical switches or fuse boxes, turn the electrics off at the mains.

5) Collect the water: Use buckets, pans and any large containers to collect the water. If ceilings start to bulge, stand well back and use a long-handled implement to release the water. Take photos throughout.

6) Contact Thomas Carroll: Contact your dedicated Claims Executive or call 02920 853788 for assistance. In an emergency, please refer to your policy documents for guidance.

7) Keep a record of the damage: To pursue a claim against your policy, Insurers will require evidence of causation and damage. Take photographs of affected areas before removing or repairing damage.

8) Get the leak fixed: Use a recommended plumber. Keep all receipts and details of work carried out as some aspects of the repairs may be covered by your Policy.

Have a Question About Your Home Insurance?

Whether you are an existing client or looking to switch from your current insurance provider, get in touch with our home insurance team on 02920 853788 or email contact@thomas-carroll.co.uk to see what we can do for you.