29 Dec Pivotal Ideas On How to Help Protect Your Home from Water Damage
Water damage, which can cost billions annually, is one of most costly and common disasters that your home may experience. Get the best insurance coverage to protect your most valuable asset from water damage. Here are some tips and tricks.
Insurance and water damage
Different types of water damage can be insured with different types of policies.
Renters and homeowners insurance covers damage from ice dammed roofs, wind-driven rain, and burst pipes. A standard homeowners policy covers water from the top, such as rain and burst sprinklers.
While some policies cover drain and sewer backups, others do not. However, you can add a sewer backup rider for homeowners or renters insurance.
Water that is sourced from the bottom, such as a river overflowing, is typically covered by separate flood insurance policies. These can be purchased through the Federal Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or from private insurers. Learn more about the appropriate coverage if you live in flood-prone areas.
Water damage can be prevented by properly maintaining your home.
Avoid basement water seepage
- Re-seal your basement. Cracks in floor slabs and foundations can lead to water seepage in basements. Water seepage in basements can be caused by cracks in floor slabs or foundations. Water sealant can be used to prevent seepage in areas that are vulnerable.
- Water must drain away from your building. Severe soil settlements can cause seepage. Rainwater that flows toward the building from storms, especially when the ground is saturated, can seep through cracks and down to the foundation wall.
- Install a backwater valve. Sewer backups, although less common than other causes for basement water, can be quite messy. Find out more about your sewer responsibilities. Install and maintain a backwater valve that allows sewage to drain, but not return in.
Keep an eye on your indoor plumbing system.
- Make sure to check the faucets and hoses leading to appliances. Every year, make it a habit to inspect the hoses that lead to water heaters and dishwashers. A water leak monitoring and shutoff system can be an option that will alert you to potential leakage problems. Replace any leaky or cracked hoses immediately and every five to seven year.
- Inspect tubs and showers. If necessary, seal or reseal tubs and showers.
- Turn off the water supply for your vacation and don’t leave the house while the dishwasher or washer are running.
- Locate the main water shutoff valve in your house. Water can rush into your home from a burst pipe or damaged hose. It will save you time, stress, and money by being able to quickly locate the main water supply and shut it off.
- Install an Emergency Pressure Release Valve in your Plumbing System. This will prevent pipes from bursting and protect them against freezing pipes.
- Inspect plumbing and heating pipes. You should inspect your pipes for cracks or leaks immediately and make any repairs needed.
Protect and repair your exterior
- To prevent water seepage, caulk and seal windows.
- Check your roof to make sure there are no missing, damaged or aging shingles. Make any repairs that are necessary.
- Check your downspouts. Clear out any debris from rain gutters or downspouts. Place downspouts in a way that directs water away from your house.
- Make sure sprinklers or irrigation systems aren’t causing water damage to walls and foundations. To prevent frozen pipes, turn off outside faucets and drain them.
- Install gutter guards in order to prevent gutter clogs, and keep water from accumulating on the roof.
Protect your possessions
- Keep off-season items and bulk belongings dry in waterproof bins.
- Do not store valuables or memorabilia in areas where water could cause damage . Mold damage is also a possibility with damp and water.
- Store belongings on shelves above the basement floor. They are less likely to be damaged by water seepage or sewer backup.
- Keep an up-to-date home inventory. A complete list of all your possessions can save you time, hassle, and stress in the event of water damage.