From mold to mildew to leaks, water damage is one of the most common—and costly—types of damage a homeowner can experience. What are the most common sources of water damage—and how can homeowners avoid them? In this edition of the Grange Insurance Association blog, our experts have reviewed the leading causes of water damage along with preventative tips.
When safeguarding your home from potential water damage and avoiding costly homeowner insurance claims, one of the first things you’ll want to check is your indoor plumbing system.
Do your plumbing pipes have any cracks or leaks? If so, you’ll want to promptly set up a time to have those inspected and repaired.
The seal and caulking around tubs and showers should be watertight. If you see breaks or cracks in the caulking, it’s time to reseal.
When pipes freeze, they risk bursting. Winterize your home to prevent damage, ensuring you’ve installed an emergency pressure release valve.
Is your toilet overflowing? Is it not flushing completely? Does it seem to be running slowly, or is the water running too long after flushing? These are all signs that the toilet could be failing and should be inspected.
When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, you need to make sure you have good drainage. Clean your gutters routinely to avoid damage to your siding and foundation.
As a water heater ages, it can begin to rust and corrode, leading to leaking or bursting. An annual inspection will signal if your water heater is in good condition—or if it’s time for a replacement.
When we think of water leaks, our first thought is to inspect the bathroom plumbing. However, there are many other household appliances that can contribute to leaks, including washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators. Check appliance hoses and faucets routinely for cracks or leaks, and replace them every 5-7 years.
High humidity levels can cause water damage, so humidity should always be below 55 percent inside the home. If there are high moisture areas in your home, consider running a dehumidifier or installing exhaust fans.
In the case of flooding from heavy storms, sump pumps can protect against damage. Be sure to test your sump pump regularly, at least once a year.
We hope that you found these tips to be helpful! This is not an exhaustive list, so if you have additional questions or specific concerns about your homeowner insurance coverage, please reach out to your independent advisor for guidance.
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