Frozen Pipes Are Winter’s Biggest Threat—Make Sure You’re Prepared
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As New England heads into the coldest months of the year, frozen pipes become one of the most damaging and costly risks for both homeowners and commercial property owners. Sudden drops in temperature, aging infrastructure, and insufficient insulation create the perfect environment for burst pipes, leading to severe water damage, business interruption, and complex insurance claims. Understanding how to prevent these events—and what to do when they happen—is critical for winter preparedness.
The Rising Threat of Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the leading causes of property damage during winter. When water freezes and expands, it can rupture pipe systems and release thousands of gallons of water into walls, ceilings, and mechanical systems. The fallout is extensive: structural damage, ruined equipment, mold growth, and lengthy operational downtime for businesses.
Properties with older heating systems, vacant spaces, or poorly insulated areas face the highest risk. Even a brief power outage can set the stage for pipes to freeze rapidly.
How to Prevent Winter Pipe Damage
The best defense is proactive maintenance and monitoring. Key prevention strategies include:
- Keeping indoor spaces at a consistent temperature—never below 55°F
- Insulating exposed pipes in basements, attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls
- Allowing faucets to drip during severe cold to maintain water flow
- Opening cabinet doors to allow warm air to reach pipes
- Sealing gaps or cracks that allow cold air to penetrate around plumbing
- Scheduling regular HVAC maintenance to ensure heating systems are reliable
These measures significantly reduce the likelihood of a pipe burst, especially during severe cold snaps.
Fire Risks Still Increase in Winter
While frozen pipes dominate winter losses, fire risks remain elevated due to heating systems, electrical overload, and seasonal activities. Space heater misuse, outdated wiring, chimney buildup, and holiday decorations all contribute to winter fire incidents.
Simple precautions—such as keeping three feet of clearance around heat sources, avoiding extension cords for appliances, and having fireplaces inspected annually—can reduce the chance of a winter fire.
If Damage Occurs, Seltser & Goldstein Is Your Advocate
Whether your building suffers extensive water damage from a burst pipe or fire damage from a heating malfunction, navigating the insurance claim process alone can be overwhelming. Winter losses often require detailed documentation, specialized valuation, and persistent follow-up with the insurer.
Seltser & Goldstein’s licensed public adjusters help property owners by:
- Reviewing insurance policies to identify coverage, exclusions, and limitations
- Documenting structural, mechanical, and contents damage
- Managing all communication and negotiations with the insurance company
- Building a comprehensive claim that supports a faster and more accurate settlement
Water losses—especially those involving mechanical systems, walls, and long-term moisture exposure—are frequently undervalued by carriers. Seltser ensures nothing is overlooked and that your recovery reflects the true scope of the damage.
Stay Prepared—and Know Who to Call
Winter conditions in New England are unforgiving. Preventative steps can reduce your exposure, but when major damage occurs, expert guidance is essential. Seltser & Goldstein provides the advocacy and experience property owners need to protect their investment and recover fully.
Seltser & Goldstein has a long history as a public adjusting Firm in New England. We made a commitment in 1935 when we opened our doors that our focus would be to educate and represent all our clients to the best of our ability.
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