Whether it’s a minor leak or a major flood, water damage of any kind is a headache for homeowners. You can learn valuable lessons from others’ misfortunes to prevent similar disasters in your own home. Learn more about the most common causes of residential water damage so you can lessen the risk to your own property.
Leaky Appliances
How long have you had your current refrigerator, dishwasher, and washing machine? Older appliances are more susceptible to weakened pipes and hoses, which can lead to leaks. Every few months, inspect the hoses and gaskets on all appliances that are hooked up to your water supply, and replace aging or weakening components.
Clogged Gutters
Cleaning the rain gutters on your home can be annoying, but there are many good reasons to do it regularly. Those gutters exist to channel rainwater away from your home. However, when they’re overfilled with leaves and debris, rainwater will run down the side of your house and damage your ceilings and walls.
Loose Pipes
Your plumbing system’s pipes should all be properly fitted by a professional plumber. Broken, loose, or ill-fitting piping can cause leaks that damage the walls, ceilings, and floors of your home. If you spot a leaky or loose pipe, call a plumber for assistance instead of trying a DIY solution.
Malfunctioning Sump Pump
If your home’s septic system has a sump pump, inspect it regularly to ensure it’s in good working condition. Damage from sewage water can easily double your headache, as the water is contaminated with human waste and hazardous bacteria.
Good To Know:
There are a few reasons why your insurance would deny a water damage claim, so talk to your insurer about buying a septic-specific policy for adequate coverage. You don’t want to be caught unprepared if your sump pump does overflow!
Natural Disasters
Snowstorms, hurricanes, and other natural disasters can severely damage your home; if your home is in the path of a severe weather event, preparedness is essential. Have an evacuation plan in place, and program the phone numbers of your insurance agent and a local water damage remediation company into your phone. Keep your most valuable documents and possessions in a waterproof safe to protect them from damage.
If you’re worried about water damage to your home, prepare yourself for every potential outcome and be aware of the most common causes of residential water damage. Inspect your home and its fixtures and appliances regularly to stop leaks in their tracks, and know whom to call if water does damage your home.
