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Water damage is a devastating event that can happen to any home. It is one of the most frequent and expensive disasters that homeowners face, resulting in billions of dollars in losses every year. It can leave your most precious asset vulnerable, and that is why it's essential to take appropriate measures to protect your property against water damage. Having the right insurance coverage and following practical advice can help you safeguard your home and mitigate the impact of water damage.
Essential Tips for Preventing Water Damage in Your Home
Prevent basement water seepage
Reseal your basement.
Make sure water drains away from the building.
Install a backwater valve.
Maintain and understand your indoor plumbing systems
Inspect appliance hoses and faucets.Â
Inspect showers and tubs.
When away on vacation, shut off the water supply to the washing machine and never leave the house while the washer or dishwasher is running.
Know the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home.
Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system.
Check plumbing and heating pipes.
Repair and protect your home's exterior
Caulk and seal windows to guard against water seepage.
Inspect your roof for missing, damaged and aging shingles and make necessary repairs.
Check your downspouts.
Check sprinklers and irrigation systems to be sure they are not creating water damage to the walls and foundations of the house. Turn off and drain outside faucets to protect against frozen pipes.
Install gutter guards to prevent gutter clogs and keep water flowing away from the house instead of accumulating on the roof.
Protect your possessions
Store off-season and other bulk belongings in waterproof bins, especially in areas where there are plumbing pipes or that are prone to dampness, such as basements and attics.
Never store valuables or memorabilia where there is risk of destruction from water.
Keep belongings stored on shelving off the floor in basements.
Keep an up-to-date home inventory. Having a comprehensive list of your possessions will save time, trouble and stress in case of loss from water damage.
Check out this article from The Insurance Information Institute to explain about the different types of water damage that are insured by different types of policies.
