Hundreds of thousands of people are still without
power in the northeast. Yesterday a nor’easter blew through the area cuttings
power to added thousands. Temperatures have dropped and overnight temps have been
below freezing. None of this bodes well for pipes. The question that arises is what happens if
your pipes freeze because you have no heat? Is that a continuation of Sandy or
a new loss altogether?
I think the answer depends upon how it benefits the
homeowner. Frozen pipes are covered on most homeowner’s policies. If you are
not living in your house due to its being damaged you should take the extra step of shutting off the water service, if
possible and draining the toilet tanks to prevent freezing. If you have done
that and still experience a frozen pipe then you should have no push back from
the insurance company. If you’re living in the house and need water to flush
the toilet and cook, then you have to make do with what you have.
As to whether it is a continuation of Sandy and
hence only one deductible, I would make the argument it is, but if a deductible
is all that stands in the way of a recovery, take the money and run.
Don't forget, if you have a claim and need help, check out BenefitBill to learn about the claims process and how to make your insurance claim.
Have a great day!
Bill
