How to Prevent Frozen Pipes During an Atlanta Hard Freeze

While metro Atlanta winters are typically mild, periodic hard freezes can pose serious risks to commercial and residential properties. When temperatures drop below freezing for extended periods, frozen pipes become one of the most common — and costly — winter maintenance issues.

At Habif Properties, we want our tenants to be prepared. Taking a few proactive steps during cold weather can help prevent pipe damage, water loss, and business disruption.

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Serious Risk in Atlanta

Frozen pipes occur when standing water inside plumbing lines freezes and expands, potentially causing pipes to burst. This can result in:

• Water damage to your unit and neighboring spaces

• Disruption of utilities and business operations

• Expensive repairs and insurance claims

Because many Atlanta buildings were not designed for prolonged freezing temperatures, cold-weather preparation is essential, even during short freezes.

Cold Weather Checklist: How to Protect Your Unit During a Hard Freeze

When temperatures are forecasted to remain below freezing, tenants should follow these important steps to help protect their space and plumbing systems.

1. Keep the Heat On

In all heated areas, thermostats should remain set no lower than 60 degrees. Even if your unit is unoccupied, maintaining heat is critical to preventing frozen pipes in walls and ceilings.

2. Allow Faucets to Drip

Leave hot water faucets slightly open so there is a steady drip. Flowing water is much less likely to freeze than water sitting still inside pipes.

3. Open Cabinets and Interior Doors

Leave cabinet doors open under sinks and keep bathroom doors open. This allows warm air to circulate around plumbing that may be located in exterior-facing walls or enclosed spaces.

4. Remove Exterior Hoses

Any garden hose attached to an exterior spigot must be removed. Hoses left connected can trap water and cause exterior spigots — and interior pipes — to freeze and fail.

Tenant Responsibilities During Winter Weather

These cold-weather precautions are required under most leases and are part of a shared responsibility to protect the building and surrounding tenants. Preventative action helps reduce the risk of property damage and keeps systems functioning properly throughout winter weather events.