3 Common Water Damage Causes and How to Prevent Them in Your Home

12/27/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is the #1 choice in fire and water cleanup and restoration.

Water damage is the second most common reason why homeowners file an insurance claim, preceded only by fire and lightning disasters. According to Insurance Information Institute, about one in every fifty insured homes has a property damage claim caused by water damage or freezing each year. Chances are high that either you or one of your family or friends will one day experience a water damage event at home.

Since 2009, SERVPRO of Greater Covington and Mandeville has provided water mitigation services for thousands of homes and businesses throughout the Northshore and Greater New Orleans region. Our water production team has responded to water damages caused by almost every type of accident you can imagine, from burst water pipes because rats were chewing on them to a fire suppression system being triggered because it was simply too hot one summer day. But our typical water damage emergencies are caused by one of the following three reasons.

3 Most Common Causes for Water Damage Claims

1- Burst Water Pipe

Broken or cracked water supply lines are probably the most frequent culprits of water damage incidents our team encounters. To best prevent these accidents, routinely check exposed pipes under sinks and in attics for leaks and immediately make necessary repairs. Investing in a water leak monitoring and shut-off system will also help to quickly mitigate damages when a leak does occur. And make sure everyone in your home knows where the main water shut-off valve is located in case of an emergency.

2- Water Heater Malfunction or Explosion

Water damages caused by a broken water heater are usually significant losses since most water heaters are stored in attics. When a loss does occur, gallons of water spew from the attic down into living spaces below. Performing regular maintenance on your water heater will help deter a sudden incident. Also, inspect your water heater supply line about once a quarter for leaks. Replace supply lines when warranted.

3- Broken Appliances

The third often recurring cause for water damage claims is broken household appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines. More specifically, water supply lines to these appliances will sometimes leak or come loose altogether, resulting in water and or mold damages. Inspect the water supply lines to your dishwasher, refrigerator, and washing machine at least a couple of times a year. If your appliance seems to be overflowing or improperly working, then have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

When a water damage event does occur at your home, our team is here to help 24/7/365. Our water mitigation team is trained and IICRC certified to clean up water damages, dry your home back to preloss conditions, and prevent secondary damages like mold growth. SERVPRO of Greater Covington and Mandeville services Abita Springs, Covington, Mandeville, Madisonville, Folsom, and Ramsey.