Preventing Water Damage in Your Home
One of the most common (and expensive) problems homeowners face is water damage. That’s why we invited Brennan Bell from Bowers Plumbing, a third-generation plumber with years of experience, to share his top tips on how you can prevent water damage in your home.
Q&A with Brennan Bell from Bowers Plumbing
Q: What’s the first step homeowners should take if they notice a leak?
Brennan: The first thing to do if you notice a leak is to locate your water shutoff valve and turn it off. The shutoff could be in your garage, near your water meter by the road, or sometimes outside your home in the yard. It’s important to know where it is ahead of time so you can act fast and prevent further damage.
Q: What are some common things homeowners can check to prevent water loss?
Brennan: Especially in cold weather, you’ll want to make sure you disconnect any hoses from your outdoor faucets. If water freezes inside those hoses, it can cause leaks. It’s also smart to keep an eye on your water bill. If you notice a spike, check your meter. If the meter is still moving when no water is being used, you likely have a leak somewhere.
Q: What about less obvious areas, like hoses behind appliances?
Brennan: Hoses behind washing machines and refrigerators are often forgotten, but they can cause serious problems if they leak. It’s a good habit to check those hoses every six months. For washing machines, just run your hand along the back to feel if it’s damp or check for visible leaks. If your refrigerator or ice maker is against an exterior wall, it’s especially important to monitor those during cold snaps.
Q: Are water shutoff systems worth the investment?
Brennan: These systems monitor your water flow and can automatically shut off your water if they detect continuous flow for more than a set period. They’re a great way to protect your home, especially if you’re away on vacation. They can send an alert to your phone and shut off the water before a small leak becomes a big problem. In terms of cost versus potential water damage, installing one is a no-brainer.
FAQs About Water Damage and Insurance
Q: Does homeowners insurance cover water damage from leaks?
A: Many policies cover sudden or accidental water damage, but not problems that arise from neglect or lack of maintenance. That’s why it’s so important to stay on top of preventive measures like the ones Brennan mentioned. If you’re not sure what your policy covers, reach out to us for a review.
Q: What is the difference between water damage and flood damage in terms of insurance?
A: Water damage from things like broken pipes or appliance leaks is typically covered by standard homeowners insurance. However, flood damage (such as water from a natural disaster) is not covered by most homeowners policies and requires separate flood insurance. If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider adding this coverage.
Preventive Maintenance Checklist
Keep this checklist handy to protect your home from water damage:
- Locate your water shutoff valve in case of an emergency.
- Check hoses behind appliances (washing machines, refrigerators) every 6 months.
- Disconnect outdoor hoses in cold weather to prevent freezing.
- Monitor your water bill for sudden spikes that might indicate a leak.
- Consider installing a water shutoff system for extra peace of mind.
Stay Ahead of Water Damage with Southern Insurance Professionals
At Southern Insurance Professionals, we’re here to help you protect what matters most. If you have any questions about your homeowners insurance or want to ensure you’re covered for water damage, give us a call today. While prevention is key, it’s also important to have the right insurance coverage in case the worst happens. We can help you review your policy to make sure you’re fully protected against water damage and other unexpected disasters.