Will I pay any fees or commissions?

No. When you sell directly to Garden State Cash Homes, there are no real estate agent commissions or listing fees.

Do I need to make repairs or clean the house before selling?

No. We buy houses as-is, so you do not need to make repairs, paint, or clean out the property before selling.

How quickly can you close in New Jersey?

Many closings happen in about 14–21 days, and you can also choose a later closing date if you need more time.

How do you determine a fair cash offer?

We review the home’s condition and local comparable sales to determine a fair cash offer based on the current New Jersey market.

Can you buy my house if it has tenants, liens, or title issues?

Yes. We often work with situations involving tenants, liens, probate, and other complications. Tell us what’s going on and we’ll explain the options.

What happens if I don’t want to accept the offer?

There is no obligation. You can accept, decline, or counter the offer. The decision is always yours.

You get paid at closing. The closing is handled through a title company, and you receive your proceeds at settlement.

What to Do If Your Pipes Burst in New Jersey

A burst pipe is one of the most disruptive home emergencies a New Jersey homeowner can face. In a matter of minutes, pressurized water can flood living spaces, damage walls and floors, and create long-term moisture problems if not handled correctly.

This guide explains what to do if your pipes burst in New Jersey, including immediate steps, insurance considerations, disclosure rules, and what risks homeowners should be aware of after the initial emergency.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Immediately

The first priority after a pipe bursts is stopping the flow of water. Locate and shut off the home’s main water supply as soon as possible. In many New Jersey homes, this valve is located near the water meter, basement, or crawlspace.

If the pipe is actively spraying water and the shutoff valve is not accessible, contacting the local water utility or emergency plumbing services may be necessary.

Step 2: Address Electrical and Safety Risks

Standing water can create serious electrical hazards. If water has reached outlets, appliances, or electrical panels, it may be unsafe to remain in the home until power is shut off.

In situations involving extensive flooding, homeowners should prioritize personal safety and avoid entering affected areas until professionals confirm it is safe to do so.

Step 3: Document the Damage

Before cleanup begins, document the damage thoroughly:

Take photos and videos of affected areas
Capture the source of the burst pipe if visible
Record the time and date of the incident

This documentation can be critical for insurance claims, contractor assessments, and future disclosures.

Step 4: Drying and Moisture Control

Even after visible water is removed, moisture often remains behind walls, under floors, and in insulation. Without proper drying, this trapped moisture can lead to mold growth within days.

Professional drying equipment is often required to fully address hidden moisture. Simply mopping or using household fans is rarely sufficient after a significant pipe burst.

Common Causes of Burst Pipes in New Jersey Homes

Burst pipes in NJ homes are frequently caused by:

Freezing temperatures during winter cold snaps
Unheated or vacant properties
Aging or corroded plumbing systems
Poor insulation around exposed pipes
Sudden pressure changes in plumbing lines

Older homes and seasonal or inherited properties are particularly vulnerable.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Burst Pipes in New Jersey?

Homeowners insurance may cover damage from a sudden and accidental pipe burst, but coverage often depends on circumstances such as:

Whether the home was occupied
Whether heat was maintained during winter
Whether the damage was sudden or occurred over time

Insurance claims may be limited or denied if the property was vacant, improperly maintained, or if the damage was not reported promptly. Coverage also does not guarantee full reimbursement for repairs.

Do You Have to Disclose a Past Pipe Burst in New Jersey?

New Jersey sellers are required to disclose known material defects. A prior pipe burst may need to be disclosed if it resulted in:

Structural damage
Ongoing moisture issues
Mold growth
Incomplete or temporary repairs

Even if repairs were completed, buyers may ask about prior water events during inspections. Transparency helps reduce the risk of disputes after a sale.

Secondary Risks After a Pipe Burst

A pipe burst can create issues beyond immediate water damage, including:

Mold development due to lingering moisture
Warped flooring and structural deterioration
Electrical corrosion or failures
Reduced buyer confidence during future inspections

Some of these issues may not be immediately visible, making proper assessment important.

When a Pipe Burst Leads to Larger Decisions

In some cases, pipe-related damage is limited and repairable. In others, the extent of moisture intrusion, repair costs, or insurance complications may create broader challenges for homeowners.

When a burst pipe results in significant water damage, homeowners may need to understand their longer-term options. General information about selling a water-damaged house in New Jersey can be found here:
Selling a Water-Damaged House in New Jersey

Key Takeaways for New Jersey Homeowners

Shut off water and address safety risks immediately
Document all damage before cleanup
Understand insurance limitations, especially for vacant homes
Be aware of disclosure requirements related to prior water events
Monitor for mold and hidden moisture after the incident

Knowing what to do early can help prevent further damage and complications later.

This information is provided by Garden State Cash Homes, a New Jersey–based home buying company that works with properties affected by water-related issues.