Water damage is one of the most common and problematic causes of homeowners' insurance claims. Even small leaks can lead to significant structural damage and mold. In fact, the average cost of a plumbing-related water loss for a better quality home is $38,000, some reported losses exceeding $100,000.

 

Top Three Causes of Damage
 1. Frozen and burst pipes: Loss of heat due to power outage or heating system failure may cause pipes to freeze. Older and/or improperly installed pipes are susceptible to breakage, too.

 2. Appliance supply lines and hoses: It is very common for supply lines, hoses and seals to deteriorate or otherwise fail. This impacts appliances such as washing machines, water filters, ice makers, dishwashers and toilets.

3. Faulty construction: Problems can arise from human error or carelessness during installation. Other examples include sheetrock nails driven through pipes, or pipes exposed to environmental elements over time.  

 

What You Can Do
In many instances, extensive water damage can be avoided with routine plumbing maintenance conducted by an experienced professional and the installation of a leak detection device. There are many devices available, yet the costs and functions vary. For example, simple models sound an alarm when water is detected, while more sophisticated models will automatically shut off the water supply to the home.
 

In addition to installing a leak detection device, you can lessen the likelihood of plumbing-related water damage with routine maintenance. Leaks can happen anywhere in the house, but they occur most frequently in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry rooms. Early detection can mean the difference between a simple clean-up job and major structural damage.
 
In the event of leaks or flooding water damage inside your home, take the following steps immediately to minimize the extent of damage: