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Cold Weather Worries

 It was 6 AM when the phone rang.

I answered, unsure of what I’d hear.
"Hello?"
On the other end, a distressed voice replied,
"I need help finding somewhere to stay. I’m renting, and right now, water is pouring from my ceiling. When I called my landlord, she told me to find somewhere else to live."

Winter Weather Brings Unexpected Plumbing Emergencies

With a record-breaking cold front, plumbing issues and power outages become common. This tenant experienced a burst pipe but didn’t know how to turn off the main water valve in the basement. Water ran for two hours before she had to call the fire department to shut it off.

Be Prepared — Know Your Rights and Protect Your Home

To prevent frozen pipes:

  1. Let hot and cold water trickle or drip from your faucet overnight.

  2. Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate.

  3. Keep your heat on and set no lower than 55°F.

  4. If you plan to be away, have someone check your home daily or drain and shut off your water system if you’ll be gone a long time.

If Your Pipes Freeze:

  1. Know where your main water shut-off valve and electrical panel are located — whether you rent or own.

  2. Never use an open flame or torch to thaw pipes. Use a hair dryer instead.

  3. Be very cautious around standing water and electricity.

Power Outage? Consider a Generator:

  • Always use generators outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows and doors.

  • Install and regularly check carbon monoxide detectors.

  • Keep the generator in a dry, sheltered place.

  • Use heavy-duty extension cords to connect appliances.

  • Allow the generator to cool before refueling — spilled fuel on hot parts can ignite.

Tenant Rights in Pennsylvania

Know your renters’ rights, especially in emergencies.

The PA Supreme Court guarantees tenants the right to decent housing through the Implied Warranty of Habitability. This means landlords must fix serious issues that affect safety or livability—not just cosmetic repairs.

Examples include:

  • No hot/cold running water

  • Broken sewage system

  • Inability to secure doors or windows

  • No adequate heat during winter

  • Pest infestations

  • Leaking roofs

  • Unsafe stairs or floors

  • Faulty electrical wiring

  • Broken refrigeration (if landlord is responsible)

  • Unsafe structural components

Homeowners: Winterize Your Home Early

Prepare your home before winter arrives or when severe weather is forecasted:

  • Clear snow and ice from your roof and gutters.

  • Prevent snowbanks from piling against your house to avoid flooding when melting.

  • Keep a shovel and salt or sand handy for walkways.

  • Seal windows and doors properly; add storm windows or plastic insulation if needed.

  • Insulate garages and basements for thermal protection.

  • Repair loose shingles, siding, and other exterior elements.

  • Insulate exposed water pipes.

  • Have your heating system professionally inspected.

  • Stock up on heating supplies like oil or wood.

  • Consider secondary heating options, but beware of carbon monoxide dangers—always use CO detectors.

Being informed and prepared is your best defense against winter emergencies.

If you’re renting, know your rights and communicate with your landlord promptly. If you own your home, take steps now to protect your investment and keep your family safe.

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