During the winter months when temperatures drop to freezing domestic pipes can often freeze and can result in a burst pipe in your home. The damage from a burst pipe can vary from a small ceiling stain to a major flood damaging ceilings to floors and everything between. You can however take steps to help prevent frozen pipes which will prevent major incidences occurring. As the most common problem area is the attic it is important that you ensure the pipes in your attic are well insulated and during particularly cold spells you should leave the attic door open to allow heat from the house to go up in to the attic. It is also a good idea to leave your heating on for longer periods on a lower setting. Problems are more likely to occur where pipes are allowed to stay cold over a long period of time. If you are in the house when you notice a leak immediately turn off the water to prevent further damage and call a qualified plumber to call as soon as possible. It is also important to note that most insurers will not cover you for a burst pipe in a house that has been unoccupied for more that 30 days and some impose restrictions on rented or holiday homes where the homeowner must prove the heating system is in operation even when unoccupied. Make sure you check your insurance policy to ensure you are complying with your Insurers particular restrictions on this type of loss.