Flooding is one of the most common and destructive natural hazards. As climate change increases the risk of floods worldwide, water-related damage is becoming more frequent. However, water damage in your home doesn’t always come from a sudden, catastrophic event. Issues like a clogged toilet, failing water heater, burst pipe, sewer backup, or leaky roof can lead to slow leaks that result in mold, mildew, and rot. These smaller incidents can be just as damaging as a major storm.
Are You Covered?
Wondering what water damage your current homeowners’ policy covers? It all depends on the cause. Most policies distinguish between accidental and sudden damage versus gradual or maintenance-related issues. Typically, damage from lack of upkeep isn’t covered, which is why preventing water damage is so important. Here are some tips to help you protect your home:
Best Practices for Preventing Water Damage
- Monitor Your Water Bill: If you notice a sudden increase in usage without explanation, it could indicate a hidden leak. Keep an eye on monthly water consumption to catch issues early.
- Know Your Water Shut-Off Valve: In colder climates, the valve is usually in the basement, while in warmer areas, it may be outside. Make sure you can quickly turn off the water in case of an emergency and consider shutting it off if you’ll be away on vacation.
- Check Your Water Pressure: High water pressure can cause pipes and hoses to burst. Use a pressure gauge (available at most hardware stores) to keep your home’s pressure between 40-70 psi. Install a pressure regulator if needed.
- Install Water Leak Detectors: These devices, like smoke detectors, can alert you to leaks before they become a big problem. Place them near potential problem areas, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and water heaters.
- Take Care of Your Pipes: Regularly inspect your home’s pipes for wear and tear. In colder climates, keep a trickle of water flowing to prevent freezing. Also, disconnect outdoor hoses to avoid freezing damage.
- Clear Outdoor Hazards: Gutters and downspouts can become clogged with debris, leading to water overflow that damages your roof or foundation. Clean them twice a year, and direct downspouts away from the house. Be mindful of tree and shrub roots, which can damage underground pipes.
- Be Aware of Flood Zones: If you live in a flood-prone area, inspect any existing flood prevention systems and make necessary repairs. If you’re building a new home, choose a location above flood water levels.
- Inspect Appliances Regularly: Leaks from refrigerators, dishwashers, and washing machines are common sources of water damage. Check and replace old hoses or seals according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Minimizing Water Damage
In the event of a leak or flood, here’s how to minimize the damage:
- Turn Off Your Water: Shut off your home’s water main to prevent more water from entering the system.
- Protect Your Belongings: Move valuable items and furniture to a safe location and use buckets or towels to contain active leaks.
- File an Insurance Claim: Contact your insurance company immediately so they can send a water remediation specialist to mitigate further damage.
- Avoid Using Electronics: Don’t touch or unplug any electronic devices that are in contact with water, and never use a vacuum to remove standing water.
Stay Prepared
As a homeowner, you’ll likely deal with water damage at some point. How much it impacts your home depends on how prepared you are. To ensure you’re covered and understand the details of your homeowners’ insurance policy, contact your insurance broker. They can help you review your coverage and offer guidance if you experience a water-related incident.
