Insurer issues warning after huge claim caused by burst frozen pipes

In 2024, home insurers settled roughly 8,000 claims for weather-related pipe damage

A headteacher has the power to decide whether to close a school in the event of bad weather (Owen Humphreys/PA) (PA Wire)

Homeowners are being urged to recognise the dangers of burst frozen pipes, after a major insurer, Allianz UK, disclosed payouts of £20 million for damage between January 2023 and September 2025.

The company processed 345 claims, including a £566,000 incident where a four-bedroom house suffered extensive damage while its owner was abroad.

Graham Wright, managing director of home insurance at Allianz UK, said: “Burst pipes can cause a large amount of damage so it’s a good idea to keep your heating on a constant low heat when you’re out, and for homeowners to insulate their loft and use good quality lagging, especially around pipes and water tanks, so they don’t freeze.”

With more wintry weather expected and temperatures having already dropped as low as minus 10C in some parts of the UK this week, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has issued a similar warning, urging people to properly insulate their pipes and lofts.

Bamburgh Castle surrounded by snow in Bamburgh, Northumberland (Owen Humphreys/PA) (PA Wire)

Mark Shepherd, assistant director and head of general insurance policy at ABI, said last week: “With a cold snap ahead, people need to put their safety first and follow weather warnings and advice.

“This includes taking steps to protect your home from cold weather and to keep your vehicle safe.”

In 2024, home insurers settled roughly 8,000 claims for weather-related pipe damage totalling £250 million, with the average claim costing £33,000, according to ABI.

Allianz said those who plan to leave their home unattended should be particularly careful during this cold weather, and suggested that, to help prevent frozen pipes, households could consider keeping their thermostat set to at least 13C.

The insurer said that many burst-pipe incidents happen when people are away for a period of time over a cold spell.

Homeowners who plan to leave their home unoccupied for more than a few days should check weather forecasts and consider proactive measures such as draining water tanks, turning water off at the stop cocks, keeping heating on and arranging for people to visit the home regularly, it suggested.