Burst pipes are typically associated with freezing weather, which isn't exactly what Florida is known for. Even in the Sunshine State, the pipes in your home can burst, leaving you with an expensive and wet mess. 

If this happens to you, is it covered by your Florida homeowners insurance? Fortunately, an independent insurance agent can discuss the coverage in your home insurance policy, and help you get set up with a policy that will cover expected and unexpected incidents. 

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Busted Pipes?

The best way to be prepared for an unexpected busted pipe is with the proper insurance. Standard homeowners insurance will provide some coverage for busted pipes, but it can get complicated. 

Here's what homeowners insurance will cover

• Water damage: Any water damage that occurs from busted pipes will be covered under your standard homeowners insurance. This includes damage to your home and your personal property. 
• Temporary living arrangements: Should you have to temporarily move out of your home while your pipes are being repaired, insurance would cover associated costs for temporary living arrangements. 
• Resulting mold/mildew: If the water damage results in mold or mildew, this is typically covered under your homeowners insurance policy as well. 
• Destruction to get to the broken pipes: Should you need to break through a wall or pull up the flooring to get to a busted pipe, you'll get coverage for these costs.

Here's what homeowners insurance won't cover

• The pipe itself: Your insurance will not pay for the replacement cost of the burst pipes themselves.
• Poor maintenance: Busted pipes are typically a result of poor maintenance, negligence, or extreme events like earthquakes, all of which are excluded in Florida insurance coverage.

A Florida independent insurance agent can help you understand the coverages available in your homeowners policy. 

What Can Cause Pipes to Burst in a Florida Home?

The weather in Florida rarely drops down to freezing, but temperature isn't the only factor that can lead to burst pipes. For Florida residents, the following events can result in your pipes being so stressed they simply burst open.

• Water hammering: This is when water pipes are not secured when being installed and therefore move inside the walls whenever the water is turned on or off. You know if you have water hammering if you hear pipes clanging in the walls or floors.
• Water pressure: A sudden increase in water pressure can put a strain on your pipes and eventually cause them to burst. 
• Corrosion: Water pipes are not meant to last indefinitely. For Florida residents that live near the coast, salt water can cause pipes to corrode more quickly than for those who live inland.
• Too many people using water at once: That's right, multiple people using water can push an excessive amount of water into the pipes and then you end up with a water pressure issue.
• Uninsulated pipes: Pipes that do not have proper insulation are more likely to burst. 
• Extreme weather: Freezing weather is bad for pipes, and so is extreme heat. Heat can cause pipes to expand and contract and eventually burst.
• Cracks in piping, sinks, and faucets: Cracks and piping do not mix. Whether it's a crack in your piping or a crack in your toilet or sink faucet, it all can lead to a leak.

Costs to repair leaking or burst pipes

How Common are Burst Pipes In Florida? 

Burst pipes in Florida are more common than you may think. While it's probably not the number one concern that should be on your homeowner's checklist, it's definitely something to be aware of. 

Burst pipes can occur because of something going on with the pipes in your home, or even a situation going on with the sewer system in the city where you live.

In recent years, Fort Lauderdale experienced an uptick in burst pipes as a result of extremely old sewer pipes. These disruptions led to more than 200,000 homeowners not having access to water sources. 

Location can have a major impact on your chances of burst pipes as well. Cracked pipes are one of the leading causes of damage to South Florida homeowners because of extreme heat. Those who live on the coast are at risk of corrosion from saltwater damage. Ultimately, busted pipes are nothing to look away from.

How Can You Protect Your Florida Pipes from Bursting?

The best way to protect your Florida home is with proper maintenance of your pipes. The following steps can help you avoid a busted pipe situation. 

1. Check your drainage: Keep an eye on your sinks and showers and whether they start to drain slowly. This could be a sign of a clog. 
2. Check for leaks: Once a week, turn on all of your running water outlets and check for any leaks.
3. Look for cracks in pipes: Call a plumber immediately if you notice a cracked pipe in your home.
4. Look for signs of dampness or moisture: Pay attention to any moisture or damp spots on your walls or floors.
5. Get a plumbing inspection: Hire a professional plumber to come to your home and do a plumbing inspection and check-up of your sewer system.

A Florida independent agent can help you determine the specific risks to your home based on the age of the home, location, and sewer history.

Here's How an Independent Insurance Agent Can Help

Busted pipes can result in thousands of dollars in damage, so you want Florida homeowners insurance that protects you and your property. A Florida independent insurance agent is an expert in home insurance and how to find great coverage in the state.

Agents will chat with you, free of charge, to learn about your home and insurance needs. They'll pull multiple quotes for you, discuss your options, and provide insight on the right type of insurance for your home.