Are you protecting your home from potential water damage? Texas experienced heavy rain and flooding across the state in August that broke multiple records. It’s giving us cause to review how we can be better prepared and protect our home not only during an extreme weather event, but against leaks within the home as well.
If you are not already insured with a flood policy, do not wait. It takes 30 days for a flood policy to take effect. If floods cause damage to your home before then, you will not be covered.
What about preventing water damage within the home caused by leaks or burst pipes? The smallest leaks can turn into a huge issue that not only could cost you thousands in repairs, but could cause health issues if mold develops from ignoring the problem. We will discuss the ways in which you can help prevent leaks occurring in your home and how a water leak detection system could protect your home and save you money.
First, make sure you are performing regular maintenance on your home. On the exterior of your home, clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure water moves and drains away from your foundation. Inside your home, check and replace the hoses on your appliances every 5 years. These hoses get worn and even damaged by rodents, resulting in slow leaks. Check your water heater for leaks and signs of corrosion. If your water heater is leaking, it may be a sign it is due for repair or replacement. If you have a sump pump in your house, ensure you check that it is working properly and consider adding a back-up battery. The easiest thing to do to detect leaks is to monitor your water bill. A higher water bill could mean you have a leak!
Lastly, invest in a water leak detection system. Water damage is the second most frequently filed homeowners claim and average a whopping $9,633, according to www.iii.org. Our homes are also more likely to sustain damage from a plumbing leak than by fire or burglary! If we have smoke alarms and home security systems, then we should invest in a water leak detection system. Having one would give you peace of mind, potentially prevent costly repairs, and could lower your insurance premium!
You can visit Associated Insurance Managers at 11111 Katy Freeway, Suite 120, in Houston. They are a full-service independent insurance agency providing personal and commercial insurance. To learn more about the services offered, email info@aimins.net, visit their website at https://www.aimins.net, or contact them at (713) 365-8400.