Frozen pipes are often an overlooked but costly risk for housing organizations that can lead to massive water damage, expensive repairs, and building-wide disruptions. While the threat is more pronounced in colder climates, property losses from frozen pipes are increasingly common in warmer states as well.
This guide outlines best practices to prevent frozen and bursting pipes, based on claims data, real-world scenarios, and insights from HAI Group’s Risk Control team.
What you'll learn
- Why frozen pipes burst and how to spot warning signs
- Common scenarios that lead to pipe freezes—and how to avoid them
- Actionable strategies for staff and residents to prevent pipe bursts
- What to do when a pipe freezes or bursts
- How to protect vacant properties and vulnerable spaces
Why this matters
Since 2020, HAI Group has handled over 300 water damage claims from burst pipes in 34 states, including warmer climates like Texas and Florida. These incidents resulted in over $38 million in damage, averaging over $124,000 per claim.
In one extreme example, a single burst pipe on an upper floor caused $700,000 in damage, including elevator repairs. Frozen pipes don’t just cause financial losses; they can displace residents, disrupt building operations, and result in costly abatement if hazardous materials like asbestos are involved.
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This article is for general information only. HAI Group® makes no representation or warranty about the accuracy or applicability of this information for any particular use or circumstance. Your use of this information is at your own discretion and risk. HAI Group® and any author or contributor identified herein assume no responsibility for your use of this information. You should consult with your attorney or subject matter advisor before adopting any risk management strategy or policy.
HAI Group® is a marketing name used to refer to insurers, a producer, and related service providers affiliated through a common mission, management, and governance. Property-casualty insurance and related services are written or provided by Housing Authority Property Insurance, A Mutual Company; Housing Enterprise Insurance Company, Inc.; Housing Specialty Insurance Company, Inc.; Housing Investment Group, Inc.; and Housing Insurance Services (DBA Housing Insurance Agency Services in NY and MI).
