We hope you are all staying safe and warm through this frigid, winter holiday weekend. We want to share some information on recommendations on how to help reduce damage caused by freezing pipes and in case of a power outage.

If you lose power, please do not call the management office. Please contact JCP&L to report the outage and/or to find out what time they expect to have the serviced restored. The phone number for JCP&L is 1-800-662-3115. 

What Causes Frozen Pipes

The water inside pipes can freeze when outdoor temperatures drop below freezing. As freezing water expands, it causes the pressure inside the pipes to increase, possibly leading to bursting pipes.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate pipes, especially those close to outside walls, attics, or crawl spaces where the chance of freezing is greatest.
2. Seal air leaks surrounding or near pipes.
3. Disconnect all outdoor hoses and turn off water to exterior faucets.
4. Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
5. Keep heat set at 70 degrees F. or higher even when you are out of town.
6. If you need to be away from home for an extended period, leave the heat on and drain your water system before you go.
7. Identify the locations of shutoff valves so that you are prepared to stop the flow of water as soon as possible when a pipe bursts.

What to Do When Pipes Freeze or Burst

If pipes freeze:

1. Open all faucets.
2. Remove insulation and wrap pipes in rags.
3. If all else fails, call your plumber.

If pipes burst:

1. Shut off the water immediately to prevent additional damage.
2. Take proper precautions to avoid an electrical shock from being in or near standing water.
3. Take an inventory of any damaged property or possessions.
4. Contact your insurance company to help you locate a vendor specializing in emergency water mitigation services that can properly dry out the damaged area.
5. Contact the Management Office to advise of burst pipe. Access Property Management Emergency Number (855) 630-7720

Wishing all Happy Holidays and a Safe, Healthy, and Happy New Year!

Michelle McCartney, Community Manager, mmccartney@accesspm.com, Office: 908-806-2600

Lauren Sandford, Senior Property Manager, lsandford@accesspm.com, Office: 908-806-2600, Cell: 609-610-6305