Does Your Homeowners Policy Cover Frozen Pipes and Ice Dams?

Michigan winters can be beautiful, but they also bring challenging hazards to homeowners. Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures can lead to significant damage, especially from ice dams and frozen pipes.

At Allen-Harmon-Kozhuharov Agency, we want to help you understand these hazards and ensure your home has the optimal homeowners coverage.

How Do Ice Dams and Frozen Pipes Form?

Ice dams form when heat escapes from your home’s roof, which causes snow to melt and re-freeze at the eaves. This buildup of ice can prevent melting snow from draining, causing water to back up under shingles and leak into your home. This can damage ceilings and walls, and promote mold growth.

Frozen pipes are another common winter threat. When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, which can cause the pipes to burst. This can lead to significant water damage.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover These Risks?

In most cases, a typical homeowners insurance policy may cover sudden and accidental damage caused by ice dams or burst pipes. For example:

• If water leaks into your home due to an ice dam, your policy may help pay for repairs to walls, ceilings and personal belongings.
• If a pipe bursts and causes water damage, your insurance may cover the cost to repair the damage and replace belongings.

However, coverage can depend on how well you maintain your home. Your claim can be denied if your insurer rules that the damage is caused by neglect, such as failing to keep your home heated. It’s important to review your policy and understand any exclusions or requirements.

How We Help Michigan Homeowners Stay Financially Protected

Our team can review your current homeowners insurance, explain your coverage for common winter hazards and recommend steps to reduce your risk. We also offer guidance on safeguarding your property during the winter, such as proper insulation, roof maintenance and keeping your home warm during cold snaps.

If you have questions about your coverage or want to make sure your home is ready for winter, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to review your policy or discuss your coverage needs.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.