Expensive Water Damage, and How to Avoid It

Water damage is the second-most filed claim by homeowners and renters every year, but few people really know how to keep water where it belongs – in your pipes and in your water heater – and not soaking your floors or dripping through your ceilings.

Water may be a “necessity of life” but it can cause extensive, expensive damage that is time-consuming to deal with. Water damage is far more common than you might think.

• I’ve read that every year, one in 50 insured homes file a property damage claim caused by water damage or freezing every year.
• The average cost of a claim due to water or freezing is nearly $10,000.
• It takes nearly four days for a mitigation unit to dry out a home.

To help you avoid this common risk, here are some important tips to prevent potential damage and recommendations of new technology that can help.

Where’s your water main? Most homeowners and renters have no idea where their water main is located so they can shut it off quickly in an emergency.

Read your water bill thoroughly. A bigger water bill may indicate that there’s a leak somewhere. Often, water utilities will suspect a leak and inform you on your bill.

Replace the hoses on your washing machine. Consider replacing the standard rubber and plastic hoses with stronger steel braided hoses for increased durability.

Clean your rain gutters and downspouts. This will ensure that water moves through them and drains away from your foundation.

Inspect your water heater. Look for signs of corrosion and age. It’s common for water heaters to weaken over time and rupturing.

Consider amazing new technology. Wireless leak sensors connect to your wifi and will send a leak notification directly to your smartphone. Smart water valves will automatically turn off the water main if an unusual water flow is detected.

Be prepared. You can follow these suggestions and still suffer water damage. Make sure your homeowners or renters insurance covers you when a water disaster strikes your home.

Contact me. If you have any questions, or would like to explore insurance solutions, please call (530) 661-0666 or email me at aromo@vanbeurden.com.

Content provided by Safeco Insurance