Freeze Damage in Winter: Common Claim Scenarios and Prevention

Understanding Freeze Damage in Minnesota Winters

Minnesota's harsh winters create unique risks for homeowners. Understanding freeze damage—what causes it, how to prevent it, and what insurance covers—can help protect your property and your wallet.

Common Freeze Damage Scenarios

Frozen Pipes

When water in pipes freezes, it expands, which can cause pipes to burst. This is one of the most common winter insurance claims in Minnesota.

Where it happens:

• Unheated or poorly insulated areas (attics, crawl spaces, basements)
• Exterior walls with pipes
• Garages or outbuildings
• Pipes near exterior walls or windows

Water Heater Failure

Extreme cold can cause water heaters to fail, leading to water damage.

Appliance Lines

Dishwasher, washing machine, and refrigerator water lines can freeze and burst.

Sprinkler Systems

If outdoor sprinkler systems aren't properly winterized, they can freeze and cause damage.

What Insurance Typically Covers

Covered Scenarios

Most standard homeowners policies cover freeze damage when:

• You've taken reasonable care to maintain heat in your home
• You've protected pipes from freezing
• The damage is sudden and accidental

What's Typically Covered

• Water damage: Damage from burst pipes
• Property damage: Damage to your home and belongings
• Temporary repairs: Costs to prevent further damage
• Additional living expenses: If you must temporarily relocate

What May Not Be Covered

• Negligence: If you failed to maintain heat or protect pipes
• Gradual damage: Slow leaks that develop over time
• Freezing while vacant: If home is unoccupied without proper precautions
• Preventable damage: Damage that could have been avoided with reasonable care

Prevention Strategies

Before Winter

1. Insulate pipes: Especially in unheated areas
2. Seal gaps: Around pipes where they enter your home
3. Disconnect hoses: Remove and drain outdoor hoses
4. Winterize sprinklers: Have system professionally winterized
5. Check insulation: Ensure adequate insulation in attics and crawl spaces

During Cold Spells

1. Keep heat on: Maintain at least 55°F even when away
2. Open cabinets: Allow warm air to reach pipes under sinks
3. Let faucets drip: A slow drip can prevent freezing
4. Check for drafts: Seal any air leaks near pipes
5. Monitor vulnerable areas: Check attics, crawl spaces, and basements

If You're Away

• Don't turn heat off: Keep it at least 55°F
• Have someone check: Ask a neighbor or friend to check regularly
• Consider a monitoring system: Smart home devices can alert you to temperature drops
• Shut off water: If extended absence, consider shutting off main water supply

Signs of Frozen Pipes

• No water: Faucet produces no water or just a trickle
• Frost on pipes: Visible frost on exposed pipes
• Strange odors: Unusual smells from drains or faucets
• Bulging pipes: Pipes that appear swollen or bulging

What to Do If Pipes Freeze

1. Keep faucet open: As pipe thaws, water will flow
2. Apply heat: Use hair dryer, heat lamp, or space heater (never open flame)
3. Start near faucet: Work your way back to frozen area
4. Check for leaks: Once thawed, check for damage
5. Call plumber: If you can't locate or thaw the frozen section

What to Do If Pipes Burst

1. Shut off water: Turn off main water supply immediately
2. Turn off electricity: If water near electrical systems
3. Document damage: Take photos and videos
4. Call your insurer: Report claim promptly
5. Mitigate damage: Remove standing water, move belongings
6. Call professionals: Water damage restoration and plumber

Minnesota-Specific Considerations

Extreme Cold Events

Minnesota experiences periods of extreme cold (below -20°F) that increase freeze risk. During these periods, be extra vigilant.

Older Homes

Older homes in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding areas may have:

• Poor insulation
• Pipes in exterior walls
• Inadequate heating in some areas

These factors increase freeze risk and may require additional prevention measures.

Vacation Properties

If you have a cabin or vacation property, ensure it's properly winterized or has adequate heat and monitoring.

Questions to Ask Your Agent

• What does my policy cover for freeze damage?
• Are there any exclusions I should know about?
• What if I'm away when damage occurs?
• Does coverage apply to detached structures?
• What's my deductible for water damage claims?

The Bottom Line

Freeze damage is a real risk in Minnesota winters, but it's largely preventable. Taking proper precautions—insulating pipes, maintaining heat, and monitoring your property—can help avoid costly claims. Understanding your coverage ensures you're protected if damage does occur.

If you're in Minnesota and want to understand your freeze damage coverage or need help evaluating prevention strategies for your home, consider speaking with a licensed insurance professional familiar with Minnesota winter risks.