What to Do Immediately When Your Pipes Bursts From Freezing Texas Temperatures

A burst pipe caused by freezing temperatures is stressful, disruptive, and can lead to serious water damage within minutes. Acting quickly can significantly reduce damage, protect your property, and support an insurance flood/freeze claim.

Below are the immediate steps homeowners should take if a pipe bursts due to freezing.

1. Shut Off the Water Supply Immediately

• Locate your main water shutoff valve and turn it off as soon as possible.
• If you cannot locate it, shut off water at the street meter if accessible.
• If water cannot be shut off immediately, contact your local water utility or an emergency plumber.

Why this matters: Stopping the water flow is the single most important step to prevent further damage.

2. Turn Off Electricity in Affected Areas

• If water is near electrical outlets, appliances, or the breaker panel, shut off electricity to those areas.
• Do not walk through standing water if electrical systems may be energized.

Safety first: Water and electricity together can be extremely dangerous.

3. Drain Remaining Water From the System

• Open all cold and hot water faucets to drain remaining water from the pipes.
• Flush toilets once to empty the tanks.
• This helps relieve pressure and reduces continued leaking.

4. Document the Damage Immediately (Critical for Freeze Claims)

• Take clear photos and videos of:
  • The burst pipe
  • Visible ice or frost on pipes
  • Water damage to walls, ceilings, floors, cabinets, and contents
• Capture wide shots, close-ups, and take lots of video!
• Do not discard damaged materials until advised.

Insurance Tip: 

Freeze claims are closely scrutinized. Early documentation protects you.

5. Begin Water Mitigation Right Away

• Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water.
• Place buckets under active leaks.
• If safe, remove wet rugs or movable items.
• Use fans or dehumidifiers if available.

Important: Insurance policies require homeowners to mitigate further damage.  It is the homeowner's responsibility to do everything within their control to prevent additional damage from water.

6. Call a Licensed Professional (Plumber)

• Contact a licensed plumber to repair or cap the burst pipe.
• Contact G3 Construction for water mitigation/restoration professional to properly dry the structure.  We are licensed and insured.

Avoid temporary or unlicensed repairs that could complicate your claim.  Your purpose is to diagnose and mitigate.  We can explain the rest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Freeze Claims

•  Delaying mitigation
•  Failing to document the pipe and ice conditions
•  Discarding damaged materials too early
•  Making permanent repairs without records
•  Assuming the insurer will "figure it out"

Should I start repairs before the adjuster arrives?

You should complete emergency mitigation only to stop further damage. Permanent repairs should wait until inspection or clear documentation is complete.

What if mold starts to form?

Mold can begin developing within 24–48 hours. Immediate drying and professional mitigation are critical to avoid secondary damage and coverage disputes.

The sooner you reach out to us the better, as we can document the damage, secure the proper documentation and protocols, stabilize the space, and begin mitigation processes.

We also explain the entire process and can answer any questions you may have.