What to do for a Burst Pipe

Burst pipes are one of the most common types of home insurance claims we see alongside storm damage, and they can be the trickiest to navigate depending on where in the house they happen, how much water is involved and where the water has gone.

How long does a burst pipe claim take?

A typical burst pipe incident is usually resolved within 3 months, but we're just about to finalise the longest burst pipe claim that we've been involved in which has now ticked over 8 months.

Will my insurance cover a burst pipe?

We recommend engaging with your insurer early to understand your policy coverage, some insurers don't cover damage where the leak is inside a shower recess which is important to know before you start ripping apart walls.

There also has to be damage to the house so if a pipe has burst in the front lawn or under a gravel driveway, this may not be covered.

What will insurance cover when I have a burst pipe?

If the damage has affected the only bathroom in the house or the kitchen and you can't safely live in the property, you can ask about temporary accommodation while repairs are underway.

It's very common to have dryers installed, they are loud but necessary, and they need to be going much longer than you think, talk to the water restoration contractor about when you're able to turn them off for some relief.

Other tips for managing a burst pipe home insurance claim:

If the damage is extensive, take photos before everything gets ripped out so that you have a reference point for replacing damaged cabinetry or flooring.

And lastly, be absolutely sure that you can fix the damage before accepting a cash settlement offer if one is presented to you. Especially if the damage is so extensive that you can't stay in the house while repairs are underway, because in nearly all of the water damage claims we've been involved in there have been delays and escalations from the original estimates.

This is what we can assist with as your broker, providing tailored advice to help in your decision, and advocating along the way to make sure things stay on track and that you're happy with the end result.