If your pipes burst, here’s what to do next

SUGAR LAND, Texas (KTRK) – Electricity is not bursting anywhere in southeast Texas, and some neighbors are feeling frustrated by not knowing what to do next.

As temperatures dropped on Tuesday, a Sugar Land family saw water drip from the ceiling.

“In the time it took me to figure out what was broken and find the valve, the entire ceiling collapsed. Water filled the floor, covered the couch, and debris was in the air,” said Marco Aguillon. “That’s how quickly the water damaged the ceiling.”

What came next was almost as bad. Aguillon couldn’t get hold of his State Farm insurance company.

“It was very frustrating and I know I’m not the only one,” said Aguillon.

SEE ALSO: The Good Samaritan was inspired by his mother’s death to help families with broken pipes

According to State Farm, the extreme cold caused system failures. A spokesman told ABC13 that most of them have been restored. If you need to make a claim, contact your local representative or call 1-800-StateFarm, visit their website or mobile app.

However, due to outages, waiting times may be longer than normal. After contacting the company, Aguillon heard from a adjuster.

“When you go through something like this, just try to stay calm, document, and start cleaning up,” explained Aguillon.

If this happens to you, the Texas Department of Insurance has stated that you should file a claim as soon as possible.

Take photos and videos. Do not throw away damaged items until an adjuster sees them. Only make temporary repairs. Don’t wait to clean and hire a service if necessary.

“We covered the outside, the pipes that were clad on both sides of the house, and it still didn’t work,” explained Aguillon.

The plumbers told ABC13 to avoid damage from burst pipes and to locate the cut water pipe. It’s most likely outside of your home or in the garage.

ALSO SEE: Houston Public Works can help residents shut off water

If you see water leaking, turn it off immediately.

If a pipe bursts, don’t do the job alone. Plumbers said it could make the situation worse and run up the bill.

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