Month: February 2025

As many of you know, I’m Sterling Scott, owner of Trust Public Adjusting Group here in our community. With winter in full swing and record-low temperatures blanketing the Florida panhandle in snow, I thought it would be a good time to warn our community about the dangers of frozen pipes, which can lead to significant damage in homes and buildings.

I remember back in 2018, Volusia County experienced a few days of below-freezing temperatures. I had to cancel several roof inspections because the dew on the roofs had actually frozen. During that winter, I worked with clients who suffered from broken pipes caused by freezing water. When water freezes, it expands, and this pressure can cause pipes to rupture.

One effective way to prevent this is to keep water moving in the pipes. For example, letting a faucet or bathtub drip slightly can help prevent the water from freezing entirely. This “flow” helps reduce the risk of frozen pipes and the resulting damage. Taking preventive measures, like this one or others you may come across, is essential because a broken pipe can cause extensive and costly damage to your home.

I also recommend speaking with your insurance agent to review your policy. It’s important to understand any water damage exclusions or coverage limits that may apply. These details can play a critical role in determining whether your insurance company will provide enough funds to properly indemnify you in the event of a claim.

As always, you can rely on Trust Public Adjusting Group to assist. Our professional public adjusters offer free property inspections and policy reviews to ensure you have adequate coverage. We can also document the current state of your home, which provides invaluable evidence if you ever need to file a claim.

Stay safe and take proactive steps to protect your property this winter.