Broken Cast Iron Pipes Symptoms
Plumbing problems can lower a property’s market value, lead to extensive water damage, and pollute local aquifers.
Many houses built prior to 1975 contain cast iron pipes that are approaching the end of their lifespan.
You may have contacted your insurance company about replacing old piping or repairing damage from broken pipes, only to have your claim denied or underpaid. But with the wellbeing of your family on the line, you can’t afford to get bogged down in an insurance dispute.
Is your insurance company reluctant to pay for your broken pipe claim? Contact us for a free case review and learn how we help homeowners.

Often, insurance denials are written in a way that makes you think there is nothing that can be done. But even if your insurance company hired an engineer or some other professional to inspect your home, you should still consult an expert to see if you have a case.
Almost every cast iron pipe case we have won started with the insurance company saying, “No.” But “No” is not the end of the inquiry, it is just the beginning.
If you think you may have a claim, please contact us for a free case review. If the insurance company is doing the right thing, we will tell you. If not, we will explain what we can do to help. Either way, you are entitled to peace of mind.
There are never any costs unless we win a jury award or settlement. In most cases, we can force your insurance company to pay all of our attorneys’ fees in the event of an award.
Signs of a Broken Plumbing System
Signs that your plumbing system has problems include:
- Drain or toilet backups
- Slow drains
- Foul smells (particularly a “rotten egg” smell)*
- Roach or rodent infestation
- Leaks/water damage
- Gurgling sounds coming from drains or toilets
- Water around the floor drain in the basement
- Raw sewage backing up out of drains
- Broken, cracked, tented (raised) and/or loose floor tiles
- Stained, discolored tile grout
- Water-stained or discolored carpet/rug/mat
- Discolored floor tile
*Note that exposure to high concentrations of gases can interfere with sense of smell, so this warning sign isn’t always reliable.

Diagnosing Failing Cast Iron Pipes

If you notice any symptoms consistent with a broken plumbing system, the problem could be something minor, such as a toilet with a bad seal, a dried out drain trap, or a blocked roof vent pipe. Or, it could be due to blocked or broken pipes which are hidden under your home, and which are much more serious issues that demand immediate attention.
Contact us to receive a free consultation.
Wet and damaged base boards behind sinks, a dishwasher, or washing machine; warped wood floors; or loose floor tiles can be visually inspected for damage, but the problem pipes might be concealed behind walls or concrete. Plumbers have special diagnostic tools that they can use to inspect hard-to-access areas. Protect your family and schedule an appointment with a locally licensed and bonded plumbing contractor.
A legal consultation might also be warranted if you put in an insurance claim for broken pipes that was denied or underpaid, or if you suffered a piping-related loss for which you have not yet filed a claim.
Often, insurance denials are written in a way that makes you think there is nothing that can be done. But even if your insurance company hired an engineer or some other professional to inspect your home, you should still consult an expert to see if you have a case.
Almost every cast iron pipe case we have won started with the insurance company saying, “No.” But “No” is not the end of the inquiry, it is just the beginning.
If you think you may have a claim, please contact us for a free case review. If the insurance company is doing the right thing, we will tell you. If not, we will explain what we can do to help. Either way, you are entitled to peace of mind.
There are never any costs unless we win a jury award or settlement. Even then, your insurance company could be responsible for paying the legal fees for both parties.