Whether you are an individual, a small or even a large business, it is important for you to know that damages caused by frozen pipes or plumbing can be covered losses under an insurance policy. Review the policy to ascertain the scope of coverage, the conditions that must be met to recover, and any potentially applicable exclusions.
It is critically important to review not just the policy, but the endorsements, which often contain exclusions. For example, coverage for water damage can be excluded where it is deemed to be caused by constant or repeated “seepage” or “leakage.” This is not the case with ruptured frozen pipes, but it is important to be aware of this. An insurance carrier may initially cite this as reason to deny or limit coverage. Just because an insurance company denies or limits coverage based on a policy exclusion does not mean it is correct in its coverage analysis. The Texas Department of Insurance provides some analysis of these exclusions and approves them if it meets specifications. Some of that analysis is provided here.
As always, document, document, document. And file your claim on a timely basis.
Feel free to call me at 713-498-1120 or 713-966-6141 if you have any questions about your policy and potential coverage.
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George B. Murr
Murr Law, P.L.L.C.
4101 Washington Avenue
Houston, Texas 77007
Office Direct: 713-966-6141
Mobile: 713-498-1120
Office Fax: 713-588-2412
Toll Free: 1-877-665-1520
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