How to Prevent Water Damage in Your Home

If you’re like most homeowners, you take pride in your home and do everything you can to protect it from damage. Even if you are vigilant about taking care of your home, accidents can happen. In fact, it can often be difficult to know when you’re at risk for water damage until it’s too late. Water damage is one of the most common types of damage sustained by homes and is also one of the most costly home repairs! By taking a few simple precautions, you can help protect your home from water damage and keep your family safe. Nowell Agency shares some helpful tips to prevent water damage in your home.

Ways to Prevent Water Damage

The most common causes of water damage within your home are often preventable! Many people believe that water damage to homes is due to heavy rainstorms or melting snow. In fact, water damage is most often a result of a lack of proper home maintenance.

Does homeowners insurance cover water damage? What makes water damage especially expensive is that it’s usually excluded from your homeowners coverage if the cause is connected to poor maintenance practices. That means you’re left to pay out-of-pocket for any home repair costs. With this in mind, here are some important tips on how to protect your home from water damage so it doesn’t wreak havoc on your home or your wallet!

• Make sure you know the location of your home’s main water shut-off valve. This will allow you to respond quickly and efficiently in the event of a water disaster, such as a burst pipe.
• Have appliances such as water heaters, showers, tubs, toilets, sinks, dishwashers, refrigerators and washing machines reviewed on a routine basis by a qualified professional. Make repairs as needed.
• Conduct your own inspections of any water components in your home on a regular basis.
• Check the caulking surrounding showers, tubs, sinks and toilet bases. Reseal any openings.
• If your refrigerator includes an ice machine or water dispenser, analyze the hose between the wall and the refrigerator for signs of pinching or stress. Make adjustments as needed.
• Ensure that your sump pump is in good condition and operating properly. Consult a qualified professional if you detect any problems.
• Inspect supply lines, connections, hoses, fittings, pipes and valves for potential leaks, cracks or corrosion. Schedule repairs as soon as possible to avoid more severe damage.
• Check the lifespan for each of your appliances. Make replacements when necessary.
• Clean your roof and gutters regularly to prevent ice or debris buildup. In addition, monitor your roof for loose shingles or other damages and make repairs as needed.
• Consider installing a water flow monitoring system or smart water sensors for further protection.
• Invest in homeowners insurance that covers water damage of all types.

Best Homeowners Insurance Mississippi

Besides these practices, contact Nowell Agency home insurance agents in MS today to review your homeowners insurance plan. Our insurance professionals can ensure your Mississippi homeowners insurance policy adequately covers your home for sudden or accidental water damage. Keep in mind that some specific causes of water damage—such as flooding and sewer backups—are typically excluded from standard homeowners policies and often require additional, specialized home coverage. For more home maintenance guidance and homeowners insurance solutions, contact us today. We offer comprehensive flood insurance and can customize a homeowners insurance plan in MS for you today. Your home is in good hands when you work with Nowell Agency!