Episode #88: Winter Heat, Cold Pipes, and Hot Claims: Investigating Seasonal Losses

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Winter brings more than snow and high heating bills. It brings puffback claims, chimney fires, frozen pipes, temporary heating setups, and a steady stream of liability questions.

In this episode, William and Chantal break down common winter-related losses and what adjusters should be looking for from day one. They discuss oil furnace puffbacks, improper fireplace and wood stove installations, frozen pipe damage, and the risks tied to space heaters and overloaded power strips. The conversation moves beyond surface-level handling and into the investigative mindset required to properly document cause, identify potential subrogation targets, and preserve evidence before it disappears.

They also address rental property exposures, landlord duties, carbon monoxide and smoke detector issues, and the importance of asking direct, sometimes uncomfortable questions when investigating fires. The episode reinforces a key principle: determining cause is not optional. It is the foundation for coverage analysis, liability assessment, and protecting the carrier’s position.

If you handle property claims, liability claims, or both, this discussion offers practical reminders and real-world examples that sharpen investigative discipline during the most loss-prone season of the year.

The podcast returns February 26 with a focused discussion on contractors and snow removal liability.

For more insights, you might consider a career in liability adjusting or if you're searching for reliable adjusting services, visit Auten Claims Management.

To explore more about Chantal Roberts and her contributions to the industry, visit CMR Consulting.

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