Water damages are among the most common home insurance claims, second only to wind and hail damage. Water can flow into your home through broken pipes, overflowing sinks, faulty plumbing, and so on. Accumulation of water in well-hidden areas can result in the growth of mold and mildew, rotting your wooden floors, ceilings, and walls. However, with the help of regular home inspections, you can prevent minor damages from escalating into extensive losses.
Causes of Water Damage
There are numerous causes of water damage, including bad weather, faulty appliances, and leaky plumbing. Unfortunately, detecting water leakages and other potential causes of water damage can be difficult. However, regularly inspecting the following will help detect water damage in time.
- Washing machine, dishwasher, and refrigerator hoses
- Roofing and siding
- Bathroom, shower, and toilet areas
- Plumbing and pipe systems
- Basements, attics, and other spaces that are not regularly used
Tips to Prevent Water Damage in Your Home
The following are some of the ways in which you can prevent water damage:
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Know the Location of Your Main Water Shutoff
According to plumbing experts, the main water shutoff is the most important plumbing feature in a home. This is because it supplies the entire house with water. Knowing where your main water shutoff is located makes it easier to turn off and control the supply of the water system. This enables you to minimize the effect of water damage to your home. Moreover, you should turn off your main water whenever you plan to leave your home for extended periods.
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Maintain Your Appliances
When the hose that supplies water to your washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, and other appliances becomes old, there is a possibility that it will leak, resulting in water damage. Bear in mind that hoses have a life expectancy of about five years. Therefore, changing your appliances’ hoses regularly and before the end of their life expectancy is an effective way to prevent water damage.
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Investigate All Leaks Promptly
As mentioned earlier, regularly inspecting your home for leaks or faulty pipelines is vital for preventing water damages. If you find evidence of a water leak, make sure to investigate the source and fix it immediately. Choosing to postpone or neglect the leaks can result in mold, mildew, dry rot, and other structural damages.
Water damage is a problem you can’t ignore. Although it might sometimes seem like a minor issue, it can evolve into a dangerous situation if left unchecked. As such, endeavor to take every precaution you can to prevent water damage.
Do you have questions regarding your homeowners’ insurance? Talk to the professionals at Gee-Schussler Insurance Agency to get started on your tailored policy today!
