Why do insurance companies deny cast iron pipe claims?

These are some of the common reasons:

1. Policy has special exclusion or endorsement that reads ”water damage limited to $10,000″
2. Policy has special endorsement that limits cast iron pipe damage claims to $10,000 or less
3. Adjuster will cite language like “wear and tear”
4. Caused by constant or repeated seepage or leakage of water

Essentially, since 2016 insurance companies have created ways not to cover cast iron pipe claims. We usually recommend that the homeowner do a few things:

1. Contact a plumber to video the line
2. A temporary repair should be done so that the situation doesn’t get worse
3. Call a water mitigation company to have any water damage taken care of so mold doesn’t develop or damages get worse
4. Make sure you notify the insurance company–Simply tell them you have a cast iron pipe damage claim you need to make a claim and what the damages are so far

However, before contacting the insurance company I would highly recommend to contact a public adjuster so that you can talk about the claim and what rights you have under the homeowners insurance policy.

Finally, make sure you document all the damages by video and pictures. Take notes of any personal property damaged, what the plumber told you, and the conversation with any representative from the insurance company.