What to Do After the Pipes Burst & Dry Out?

Contact Your Insurance Company

• Burst pipes may be covered by your homeowner's insurance policy. Once you have the water shut off and have got the mess under control, you should contact your insurance company to report a claim and request instructions on how to proceed. Your insurance company may have a list of reputable plumbers, water damage mitigation services and other repair professionals who can help restore your home to its previous condition.

Document the Damage

• Take photographs of the damage, including any personal belongings that were damaged by water from the burst pipes. Make detailed notes of each item including the extent of the damage and the original cost of the item. Don't throw these items away until you have cleared them with your insurance company or the independent adjuster assigned to your claim. This information will help you settle any claims for damages with your insurance company.

Assess the Damage

• You will need a professional plumber to determine the extent of the damage to the burst pipes, but you may also need additional repairs. Water from the burst pipes may have damaged the drywall or other surfaces it came into contact with. If the water reached the electrical outlets, these may need to be inspected by a trained electrician.

Treat for Mold

• Mold is a microorganism that can grow rapidly under the right conditions. The moist environment created when pipes burst is ideal for mold growth. Mold can cause both property damage and health problems, so it is important to treat for mold as soon as possible after you have dried out the area. You should hire a contractor who is trained or certified in mold remediation to handle the mold treatment.