What to Know About Burst Pipes and Home Insurance in South Carolina

This winter, handling burst pipes in South Carolina can be a stressful and expensive ordeal for homeowners. Knowing whether your home insurance covers the damages is crucial for managing repairs and reducing out-of-pocket costs.

Does Insurance Cover Burst Pipes?

In South Carolina, homeowners' insurance generally covers damage from burst pipes if the incident is sudden and unforeseen. However, if the damage results from negligence—like failing to maintain pipes or adequately heat your home during cold periods—coverage may not apply. It’s essential to check the specifics of your policy or consult with your insurance provider to understand the limits and exclusions of your coverage.

How to Prevent Burst Pipes

• Insulate Pipes. Wrap pipes in unheated or vulnerable areas like attics, garages, and basements with foam padding sleeves or special insulating tape.
• Maintain Heat. Keep your indoor temperature consistent, even if the property is temporarily unoccupied.
• Allow Faucet Drips. Letting faucets drip slightly during freezing temperatures can prevent pressure buildup from ice formations.
• Seal Exterior Gaps. Close up any cracks or openings on your home’s exterior to stop cold air from reaching indoor pipes.

If you encounter a burst pipe in your home, act quickly to prevent further damage. Contact ServiceMaster of the Upstate right away for professional water damage restoration services in Spartanburg, SC, and other Upstate South Carolina areas. Our skilled team is ready to manage all aspects of burst pipe cleanup to swiftly and effectively restore your home.

Contact ServiceMaster of the Upstate at (864) 310-7891 or message us online to learn more about our services or request an estimate. Our emergency response team is available 24/7 to assist you.

7 Steps to Handling a Broken Water Heater in Hendersonville, SC

 

Understanding how to manage a broken water heater effectively is crucial for any homeowner in Hendersonville, NC. This guide outlines seven (7) practical steps to minimize damage.

1. Turn Off the Power
   For electric water heaters, shut off the electricity at your circuit breaker. If you have a gas water heater, turn off the gas valve to prevent gas leaks.
2. Shut Off the Water Supply
   To stop water from flooding your area, locate and turn off the main water supply to the water heater. This will help minimize further water damage until repairs can be made.
3. Drain the Water Heater
   Attach a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the tank, and lead the water to a safe area outside your home. Draining the tank prevents further leakage and reduces the risk of water damage.
4. Assess the Damage
   Check the surrounding area for water damage. Water can seep into subfloors, walls, and adjacent rooms, creating the perfect environment for mold growth.
5. Remove Standing Water
   If water has pooled in the area around your water heater, remove it as quickly as possible using a wet-dry vacuum or mop. Fast removal helps prevent the spread of moisture into construction materials.
6. Dry Out the Affected Area
   Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows (weather permitting) to aid in drying the area thoroughly. This step is crucial to prevent the growth of mold, which can start to develop in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water damage.
7. Inspect for Mold
   Look for signs of mold in areas that were water-damaged. Early detection and remediation are key to preventing long-term issues.

For any water damage restoration or mold remediation needs in Hendersonville, NC, ServiceMaster of the Upstate is here to help. Call us at (864) 310–7891 for fast, reliable water damage restoration and mold remediation in Hendersonville, NC. For non-emergency situations, message us online.