Severe winter weather can cause a range of property damage, from frozen pipes and ice dams to collapsed roofs and water damage. And while your first instinct might be to file an insurance claim, the process is often more complicated than it seems. That's where Hillis Public Adjusters come in. Public adjusters are professional claims specialists who advocate on behalf of policyholders to ensure they receive a fair settlement. In this blog post, we'll give you a brief overview of frozen pipe and ice dam claims and explain how public adjusters can help.

Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of the most common types of property damage during the winter months. When water freezes inside a pipe, it expands and puts pressure on the pipe walls. This can cause the pipe to crack or break, leading to a costly leak. In some cases, the entire pipe may need to be replaced.

If you have a frozen pipe in your home or business, it's important to take action immediately. Turn off the water at the main shut-off valve and call a professional plumber to thaw the pipe and make any necessary repairs. Once the repairs have been made, you'll need to document the damage by taking photos and videos and writing down a detailed description of what happened. This will be important when you file your insurance claim.

Ice Dams and Roof Collapses

Ice dams occur when snow or ice melts on your roof and then refreezes at the edge of the roofline, forming a dam that prevents melting water from draining properly. This can cause water to back up under shingles and seep into your home or business, leading to serious property damage. Ice dams can also cause gutters and downspouts to pull away from your building, which can lead to even more damage. And if enough weight builds up on your roof, it could collapse entirely.

As with frozen pipes, if you experience an ice dam or roof collapse, it's important to take action right away. Remove any snow or ice from around your building so that melting water can drain properly. If there is water inside your home or business, depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able to mop it up yourself or you may need to call in a professional restoration company. Either way, be sure to document the damage thoroughly so that you have everything you need when you file your claim.

While no one wants their home or business damaged by severe weather, unfortunately, it's something that happens every year. If you find yourself in this situation, don't panic—just remember that Hillis Public Adjusters are here to help. We'll work with you every step of the way to make sure you get the fair settlement you deserve. Contact us today for more information or to get started on your claim!