Thermostat Failure Leads to Burst Pipes – Insurance Claim Under Review
We own a rental property and typically maintain the heat at 60 degrees when it’s unoccupied. Unfortunately, while we were away, the thermostat malfunctioned—despite replacing the batteries, it remained unresponsive. This was followed by a severe drop in temperature, resulting in several frozen and burst pipes.
Our heating bills reflect a significant decrease in gas usage, confirming that the faulty thermostat prevented the system from heating the home.
We ended up with $25,000 in damage, but now our insurance claim is being questioned because of the extreme cold weather.
Could a malfunctioning thermostat be a valid reason for denial of our claim?
I’m sorry to hear about the damage to your rental home. A faulty thermostat can complicate an insurance claim, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be denied outright. Here are a few considerations:
Negligence Clause: Insurers often look for negligence when assessing claims. If the thermostat malfunctioned unexpectedly and you had taken reasonable precautions (like keeping the heat at 60 degrees), they may view this as an unpreventable accident rather than negligence on your part.
Documentation: Gather all evidence, including heating bills before and after the incident, records of regular maintenance, and any communication about the thermostat’s failure. This can help support your case.
Insurance Policy Terms: Carefully review your policy’s terms regarding water damage and heating system requirements. Some policies have specific clauses about temperature settings and maintenance.
Expert Opinion: If possible, get an expert opinion on the cause of the thermostat failure and the damage from the burst pipes. This can help provide further support for your claim.
Appeal Process: If your claim is denied, you usually have the option to appeal. Provide additional evidence and context during this process.
Overall, while a malfunctioning thermostat may raise questions, it doesn’t automatically disqualify your claim. It’s worth discussing the situation with your insurance adjuster and possibly seeking advice from an insurance professional or attorney if you’re facing difficulties.