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14 hidden trouble spots for water damage in your home

How do you scare even the bravest homeowner? Mention water damage. Plumbing problems, bad drainage, and any number of cracks, leaks and broken pipes are the stuff of nightmares.

Given the chance, water will find a way.

The good news? You can often avoid the stress and mess by stopping water damage at its source. Below, our Claims team shares easy steps you can take right away.

Water damage costs more than money

The average water damage claim costs about $14,000.¹ Not to mention lost mementos, cherished memories and irreplaceable items. From annoying drips to a flooded basement, when it comes to water, there’s no such thing as a small problem.

Preventing water damage is often possible

The causes of water damage aren’t always obvious, and are hidden all around the house. Our Claims adjusters have come across just about all of them, in places homeowners don’t always think to look. From their experience, here’s a list of 14 places to check.

25004_Nov_Infographic_Water-Damage-Hotspots_FA-1

1. Chimney flashing: Water loves to sneak in where your chimney meets the roof. Damaged or missing flashing can let rainwater seep behind your walls or into the attic.
2. Skylights: Skylights are beautiful, but they can be leaky if not properly sealed. Check for moisture or stains around your skylight frames and reseal as needed.
3. Gutters: Leaves and debris can block water flow, sending it under shingles or pooling near your basement. Clean them at least twice a year and consider gutter guards if trees are nearby.
4. Dishwasher hose: Dishwasher hoses can become brittle or cracked over time, especially rubber ones. A slow leak behind your appliance can easily go unnoticed for too long.
5. Ice maker: That little plastic line feeding your fridge’s ice maker? Make sure it’s securely connected and look for kinks, cracks, or signs of moisture on the floor.
6. Washing machine hose: Rubber washing machine hoses are prone to bursting without warning. Upgrade to braided stainless steel hoses to add a layer of protection.
7. Water heater: A drip tray under your water heater can catch small leaks before they become big problems. Add a drain line if possible to direct water safely away.
8. Under sinks: Out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind. The supply lines under your kitchen and bathroom sinks can leak slowly, soaking cabinets and flooring before you notice.
9. Underneath toilets: That wax ring under your toilet keeps water and sewer gases sealed in—but it doesn’t last forever. If you notice water around the base or a musty smell, it could be time to replace it.
10. Behind toilets: The flexible line connecting your toilet to the shut-off valve can loosen or crack with age. Check both ends for moisture, rust, or signs of wear and replace it with a high-quality braided line.
11. Landscaping: If the ground around your home slopes toward the foundation, rainwater can pool and seep inside. Make sure your landscaping gently slopes away from the house.
12. Hoses and spigots: Leaving garden hoses attached in the winter can cause the spigot to freeze and burst inside the wall. Always disconnect hoses in the fall and install a faucet cover or insulation sleeve.
13. Sewer drain: Tree roots love to invade sewer lines, causing backups and slow drains. Using a root killer product once or twice a year helps keep pipes clear without harming the tree.
14. Sump pumps and sewage pumps: Make sure there’s a battery backup for both. If your home’s power goes out during a storm, and they don’t have that system in place, the pump will overflow.

Bonus tip: Smart water sensors can alert you immediately when a water leak starts. Placed near dishwashers, washing machines and water heaters (the most common culprits), these low cost sensors can help you avoid expensive problems.

¹ https://www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-homeowners-and-renters-insurance

For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations.