When no claim has yet been filed, owners should document evidence of faulty piping. The same is true for any damages caused by the piping. The homeowner should also review his insurance policy to learn the language most pertinent to his claim. Prior to filing the claim, it is a good idea to consult with an insurance claim lawyer. Companies often try to deny coverage by pointing to certain exclusions. An insurance claim attorney will know whether any exclusions really apply.
The majority of homes built before 1975 were constructed using cast iron piping. This was the standard of the time and the pipes were supposed to have a lifespan of 50-75 years. The problem, though, is that the pipes began failing and breaking down way short of their projected lifespan. Most often, the pipes began to show damage within less than 25 years after their installation. Corrosion is the main cause of failure. This includes corrosion both from inside and outside of the piping. As the pipes corrode, they become thinner and more susceptible to cracking since they cannot withstand pressure from within.