How to protect your home from costly water damage

There is nothing quite like owning a home. You feel the pride of achieving a financial goal and the comfort of having a sanctuary and space of your own in which to build a lifetime of memories.

Occasionally, there is also the element of surprise when things suddenly break — such as appliances, the furnace or water heater — and need to be fixed or replaced. Water damage is the most common — and unwanted — surprise for homeowners. According to Mercury Insurance, water-related damages accounted for more than 45 percent of its homeowners insurance claims in 2020, resulting in $160 million in property damage.

“A water leak can happen at any time, so it’s important for homeowners to routinely check for potential sources to help combat this,” said Christopher O’Rourke, vice president of property claims at Mercury Insurance. “It’s also important to address the cause of brown spots on the ceiling or bulges in the walls immediately — these usually indicate a leak or water buildup, and most homeowners insurance policies don’t cover long-term leaks. Left untreated, this can lead to extensive damage.”

Show your home a little TLC to protect against water damage by inspecting these three areas in and around your home.

THE BATHROOM

Periodically check the pipes underneath the bathroom sink for cracks or leaks. A leaky pipe can be a sign of a larger issue that might eventually cause pipes to burst, such as high water pressure or corrosion. Regardless of the cause, consult with a professional to have them assess and fix the pipe.

The seal created by the caulk around your sink, tub and shower helps prevent water from seeping into spaces where it doesn’t belong, but the caulk won’t last forever. Ensure that the caulk is not worn or cracked, and apply a new layer if needed.

If water leaks from the base of the toilet, or it wobbles when you sit, it is time to replace the wax ring. Wax rings help form a watertight seal between the bottom of a toilet and the sewer pipe. The ring usually lasts the life of the toilet, but it is possible for it to dry out and fail, so pay attention to malfunction signs.

“Once a week, make a point of turning faucets on and off and flushing toilets to ensure that water continues flowing through the pipes properly,” O’Rourke said.

THE KITCHEN

Just like in the bathroom, the pipes beneath the kitchen sink need to be checked regularly for leaks and cracks.

Kitchen appliances with hoses that connect to the water supply — refrigerators with ice makers or water dispensers, and dishwashers — are another potential source for leaks. Rubber hoses can wear out, blister or crack, and will need to be replaced over time. Consider replacing this type of hose with a steel-braided version, as these are less likely to fail.

Your washing machine is probably not in your kitchen, but be sure to inspect its hose as well. The hose connection can loosen during wash-cycle vibrations, so check to ensure that the connection is tight.

THE HOME’S EXTERIOR AND ROOF

Be sure to keep rain gutters and downspouts free of debris to prevent clogs, and position downspouts to direct water away from the house.

Holes, cracks and gaps can be entry points for unwelcome water, which can cause rot or structural damage. Walk the perimeter of your home to look for imperfections in its facade. Inspect the condition of the weather stripping on the windows and doors to ensure that they are properly sealed to keep out the elements. Also, look for damaged, missing or loose roof shingles, which can be seen from proper vantage points on the ground.

If any damage is noted to your home’s exterior walls or roof, consult with a professional to determine the next steps to fix the spots where water can potentially enter.

O’Rourke also recommended that homeowners consider installing a water-leak detection system. “Smart home devices like water-leak detection or shutoff systems can monitor for leaks around the clock, and some can automatically shut off the main water supply if a leak or burst pipe is identified. These types of devices can offer peace of mind and might even qualify you for an insurance discount.”