Freeze Claims: Strategies for Swift and Effective Resolution

A holiday cold snap turned a high-rise student housing building in the Southeast into a claims management challenge after frozen pipes burst on Christmas Eve. The vacant building sustained significant water damage, displacing 150 students. Despite the complex circumstances, including the holiday timing and widespread damage, effective claims handling brought swift resolution.

The success of this case hinged on a prepared insured with pre-arranged vendor contracts, a knowledgeable facilities team, and experienced claims professionals. Coordinating among vendors, insurers, and displaced residents required proactive communication and meticulous project management. Key lessons include the importance of regional freeze preparation, prompt notification, and maintaining strong vendor relationships.

Adjusters played a pivotal role, setting clear expectations with all stakeholders and independently assessing the damage to prevent costs from spiraling. Their efforts ensured timely mitigation, reduced costs, and minimized reputational harm. This case demonstrates how thoughtful preparation and expert claims management can transform a potential catastrophe into a manageable recovery.