Water damage can lead to costly repairs. Even if your homeowners insurance covers most of the damage, you will be stressed and frustrated dealing with the situation. However, you can do a few things throughout the year to reduce your risk of having a water-related event that damages your home.
Here are 7 effective ways to protect your home from water damage:
If you don't know where your main water shut-off valve is located, find it. This is your first place to go when you discover a water leak in your home. Turning off the water will minimize the damage and allow repairs to be made.
Inspect your plumbing every few months. This will give you a chance to identify weak areas that may need to be repaired before they can cause major damage.
Check your sump pump once every few months. You won't know if something is wrong until you need it and it doesn't work. Checking it out beforehand will give you a heads up that you may need a new one. It will also save you from an unpleasant surprise if your pump quits working unexpectedly.
Inspect your roof, inside and out, at least once a year. While you are up there, inspect your gutters too. Remove any debris from your roof and clean your gutters thoroughly to prevent any backups caused by clogged downspouts.
Reduce the risk of your pipes freezing by insulating them with heat tape. If you have a basement, make sure to seal the windows so that cold air is kept to a minimum. If you have a crawlspace, place bales of straw along the foundation for an extra layer of protection against cold winds and subzero temps.
If you have smart devices like a smart thermostat, you may also be able to install a moisture and temperature sensor. These sensors will send notifications to your smartphone when moisture or sudden temperature changes occur within your home.
Check under your sinks and inside your cabinets for signs of mold and mildew. Their presence may indicate a water leak. Mold or mildew can begin to appear anytime there is an abundance of moisture. It doesn't have to be caused by a leak either. Condensation may be a problem when it comes to your heating and cooling system.
Water damage does not have to be storm-related. The best way to prevent this type of damage is to be proactive. At CF&P Insurance Brokers, we can help get customized homeowners insurance to suit your unique needs. Call us today to learn more!
