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Burst and frozen pipes in Olympia
A split pipe can put a lot of water into a wall in a short time. If water is still running, shut the water off first. Then call to be connected with an independent contractor about the damage.
Calling soon after you find the water usually leaves more choices. The call goes to an independent contractor.
Stop the water the way the City asks
The City of Olympia runs the water utility, and it says only City staff may open the meter to turn water off or on. Its frozen-pipe page asks homeowners to call Public Works at 360.753.8333 to have the water shut off before frozen pipes thaw, and not to touch the meter themselves.
If your house has its own shutoff valve after the meter, that valve is yours to use. Learn where it is before you need it.
Thawing, with care
The City lists a hair dryer, a heating pad or warm towels as ways to warm a frozen section. It also says never to use a blowtorch or any open flame.
Once the pipe is open, check exposed lines for cracks and leaks. The City recommends a licensed plumber for repairs, then another call to Public Works when you want the water back on.
A split pipe and a water-soaked wall are two separate jobs. The plumber fixes the pipe. A restoration contractor deals with what got wet.
Prevention the City lists
- Cover exterior house vents.
- Unhook and drain outdoor hoses, including lines to pools and hot tubs.
- Wrap or cover outside hose bibs.
- Insulate a water heater that sits in an unheated space.
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors so warmer air reaches the pipes.
- Let cold water drip from a faucet fed by a vulnerable pipe.
- When away in cold weather, keep the heat no lower than 55 degrees F.
Does insurance cover a frozen pipe?
The Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner says policies usually cover burst pipes, frozen ones included, as long as you heat your home properly. It also warns that coverage can be lost if repairs are delayed.
Details and links are on the insurance page.
Questions people ask
The pipe is still running and I cannot reach the shutoff. Who do I call?
Public Works at 360.753.8333 if you are on City water in Olympia. In Lacey, the City of Lacey runs the water utility, so contact Lacey's public works office.
Should I wait for the pipe to thaw before calling?
No. Call first. The City wants the water off before the ice melts, because a split pipe starts leaking as soon as it thaws.
Water still spreading? Make the call.
You will be asked what is wet, where the water came from and whether it has stopped. Have the street address in front of you.