Expert Advice on Pipe Burst Claims: Your Key to Compensation

David Comras | Oct 27 2025 19:00

Homeownership in South Florida comes with its perks — sunshine, ocean breezes, and year-round warmth — but it also brings a serious risk few homeowners expect: burst pipes. Between aging infrastructure, fluctuating water pressure, and the region’s high humidity, pipe failures are a common cause of extensive property damage in Fort Lauderdale and across Broward County. When this happens, most homeowners assume their insurance company will step in quickly to cover the costs. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

The Hidden Dangers of a Burst Pipe

When a pipe bursts, water can flood walls, floors, and ceilings within minutes. Even a small leak can cause:

  • Widespread water damage that compromises drywall, wood, and insulation.

  • Electrical hazards as water seeps into outlets or circuits.

  • Mold and mildew growth, which can begin in as little as 24 to 48 hours in Florida’s humid climate.

  • Structural instability, making the home unsafe or even unsellable if left untreated.

In South Florida, where many homes rely on older plumbing systems or PVC piping, this type of damage is especially common. Homeowners often face high repair bills that include mold remediation, structural repairs, and replacing damaged furniture, flooring, or electronics.

What Insurance Should Cover — and Why It Often Doesn’t

In most cases, a standard homeowners insurance policy should cover damage caused by a sudden and accidental pipe burst. This includes the cost of repairs, water removal, and replacement of damaged belongings. However, insurance companies often dispute or minimize these claims.

Common issues homeowners face include:

  • Claims denied due to alleged “maintenance issues”(insurers arguing the pipe failure was due to neglect rather than an accident).

  • Lowball settlements that don’t reflect the full cost of restoration.

  • Delays in processing or endless requests for documentation.

  • Coverage confusion, especially when mold or secondary damage occurs.

Florida’s insurance laws are complex, and insurance companies often exploit that complexity to their advantage. Without experienced legal guidance, many homeowners accept far less than they’re entitled to.

How a Fort Lauderdale Property Damage Attorney Can Help

At Comras & Comras, we’ve helped countless South Florida homeowners recover the compensation they deserve for water and pipe burst claims. Our legal team understands how insurers operate — and we know how to hold them accountable.

Here’s how we help:

  • Investigating the cause of the pipe burst to establish that it was sudden and accidental (a key factor for insurance coverage).

  • Reviewing your policy to identify hidden exclusions or underused provisions that may apply.

  • Negotiating directly with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement without unnecessary litigation.

  • Filing suit when needed, ensuring your rights are fully protected under Florida law.

Having a skilled Fort Lauderdale attorney on your side levels the playing field. We handle communication with insurers, contractors, and adjusters so you can focus on repairing your home and moving forward.

Protecting Your Home and Your Rights

Time is critical after a pipe burst. Florida’s humid climate accelerates mold growth, and delaying repairs can lead insurers to argue that damage worsened due to inaction. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better your chances of maximizing your claim.

The Law Offices of Comras & Comras offers free consultations for homeowners across Fort Lauderdale, Tamarac, Margate, and surrounding areas. We’ll review your situation, explain your options, and fight to ensure you receive every dollar you’re owed — whether through negotiation or litigation.

If you’re facing a pipe burst claim or believe your insurance company isn’t treating you fairly, call us today at 954-765-3740. Let us help you protect your property, your finances, and your peace of mind.