Ga. insurance commissioner offers cold weather claims tips

ATLANTA (AP) -- Georgia's insurance commissioner says homeowners should remember if winter weather causes property damage, repair costs may be covered in their homeowners insurance policies.

Commissioner Ralph Hudgens said in a statement that policies may cover costs associated with winter weather depending on the source of the damage.

Hudgens says homeowners policies typically cover repairs to internal plumbing caused by frozen pipes - along with repairs to carpet, furniture and other items.

Hudgens says damage caused by water seeping in from outside may not be covered by homeowners policies.

The commissioner says renters insurance covers water damage from an upstairs neighbor, and the neighbor's liability coverage may pay for damage if they're proven to have been negligent.