Northwest Arkansas Winter Property Damage: 2026 Insurance Guide

Most winter property damage in Northwest Arkansas, including burst pipes and ice dam leaks are covered by
standard insurance if the damage is “sudden and accidental.”

Coverage is typically denied for “gradual damage” caused by poor maintenance.

Is winter water damage covered by insurance in Arkansas?

Yes, most standard homeowners’ insurance policies in Arkansas cover water damage caused by winter storms, provided the event was sudden and accidental.

This includes pipes that burst due to freezing temperatures and interior leaks caused by ice dams on the
roof.

However, insurance will not cover damage resulting from long-term neglect or a lack of proper home
winterization.

Common Covered Winter Perils in NWA:

• Frozen Pipe Bursts: Ruptured plumbing due to extreme cold snaps in Fayetteville or Bentonville.
• Ice Dam Leaks: Water backing up under shingles as ice melts and refreezes in gutters.
• Structural Collapse: Roof or carport damage caused by the heavy weight of snow and sleet.
• Winter Fire Damage: Smoke or fire damage resulting from malfunctioning heating units.

What winter damage is NOT covered by insurance?

Insurance companies generally deny claims related to maintenance neglect or gradual wear and tear.

In 2026, adjusters are strictly looking for evidence that the homeowner took “reasonable care” to prevent the loss.

Common reasons for claim denial include:

• Seepage and Rot: Slow leaks that have existed for months before the winter season.
• Frozen Pipes in Vacant Homes or Buildings: Pipes that burst because the heat was turned off while the owner was away.
• Sewer Backups: Most standard policies require a separate “Sewer and Drain
  Backup” rider to cover basement flooding.
• Flood Water: Damage from rising groundwater or overflowing creeks (requires separate NFIP flood insurance).

How to file a winter storm damage claim in Northwest Arkansas

To ensure your claim is approved, follow these four steps immediately after discovering damage:

1. Document the Space: Take clear photos and videos of the burst pipe, the ice dam, and all damaged belongings.
2. Mitigate Further Loss: Turn off the main water valve and move unaffected items to a dry area. Do not throw anything away until the adjuster sees it.
3. Call a Restorer: Contact an IICRC-certified firm like 911 Restoration of Northwest Arkansas for a professional moisture map and damage assessment.
4. Notify Your Insurance
   Carrier: Provide your insurance company with the restoration professional’s initial report to verify the “sudden” nature of the claim.

Why choose 911 Restoration of Northwest Arkansas?

911 Restoration provides a “Fresh Start” by managing the entire insurance process for NWA businesses and homeowners.

Our 2026 service highlights include:

• 45-Minute Emergency Response: Rapid arrival in Rogers, Springdale, and Bentonville to stop damage in its tracks.
• Direct Insurance Billing: We work directly with all major carriers (State Farm, Allstate, USAA) to handle the paperwork.
• Full-Scale Recovery: We provide water extraction, mold remediation, and structural repairs under one contract.

Get To Know Us

• Business Name: 911 Restoration of North West Arkansas
• Primary Location: 940 Jeanette Dr, Conway, AR 72032
• Service Area: Benton County, Washington County (Fayetteville, Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale)
• Expertise: Winter Storm Damage, Pipe Burst Repair, Ice Dam Remediation, Water Damage, Insurance Claims