After frigid temperatures ravaged many parts of the country this winter, HomeServe USA (HomeServe), a leading provider of home emergency repair service plans, is cautioning homeowners that the welcome warmth could still spell trouble for buried water lines.

When the ground freezes as deep as it has this winter, buried water supply pipes are exposed to additional stress and strain. As the ground thaws again in the spring the soil can shift, pulling joints in the pipe apart, or worse, causing the pipe to break. Older pipes that have been through numerous seasons of freeze and thaw may be even more vulnerable to breaks.

Based on HomeServe repair data, there has been a 32 percent increase in the rate of water service line repairs in December, January and February when compared to the same period last winter. More than 3,200 HomeServe customers have been faced with a break or leak on their water service line during the last three months. As the ground finally thaws this spring, homeowners should be on the lookout for additional problems that may result.

“With the extreme temperature changes, HomeServe has seen higher-than-usual call volume from customers in need of all types of service repairs,” said Tom Rusin, CEO of HomeServe USA. “Homeowners are often surprised to learn that the cost of a water service line repair can average $2,200. But, those with a HomeServe plan will get the help they need when a leak or break on this piping occurs.”

Most basic homeowners insurance does not cover the water service line from the home to the street. If you are worried about the risk of expensive leaks and breaks this spring – or any time of year, HomeServe offers water service line plans for about $5 a month. In the event that a repair is needed, HomeServe promptly dispatches a licensed, local contractor to make the necessary repairs.

HomeServe provides more than 1.5 million customers in the US and Canada affordable emergency repair service plans that protect homeowners from the expense and inconvenience of these kinds of emergency repairs. HomeServe customers have access to a US-based Repair Hotline that is staffed and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to bring local, licensed and insured contractors right to the customer’s home.

About HomeServe

HomeServe USA Corp (HomeServe) is an independent provider of home emergency repair service plans. For over a decade, the company has protected homeowners against the expense and inconvenience of water, sewer, electrical, HVAC and other home emergencies by providing affordable coverage and quality service. HomeServe, a Better Business Bureau Accredited Business, serves over 1.5 million homeowners in the US and Canada and dedicates itself to being a customer-focused company providing best-in-class emergency repair plans through leading utility partners and directly to consumers. For more information about HomeServe, please go to www.homeserveusa.com, follow us on www.twitter.com/homeserveusa and like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/homeserveusa.