1. Watch Your Monthly Bill

Watching your monthly water bill can help you protect your home from water damage. Often, leaky pipes can cause spikes in your bill before damage is permanent or noticeable. If you notice your bill is increasing, but your water usage hasn’t increased, chances are there is a leak. As soon as your water bill is abnormally high, begin investigating. Catching a leak early on is your best defense against costly repairs.

2. Functioning and Efficient Gutters

Gutters containing clogs can cause water damage to your home. Leaves, twigs, nests, and other debris will not allow gutters and downspouts to drain correctly, leaving the foundation of your home, exterior walls, cracks in driveways and patios, and roof susceptible to severe damage. To avoid this issue, inspect and clean your gutters several times a year. Remove all debris from the gutter, make sure it is securely attached to your home, and repair any cracks and sagging. Consider installing gutter guards on your system.

3. Check Your Pipes

As pipes age, they become more prone to damage. Inspect your pipes for cracks, corrosion, rust, and other signs your pipes may be damaged. Additionally, it is important to avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes. Many people use powerful chemical treatments to unclog drains. However, these powerful agents can slowly eat away the pipes in your home. Instead, use a drain catcher to prevent clogs in your showers, bathtubs, and sinks.

4. Keep Your Pipes from Freezing

Cold winter months can wreak havoc on pipes. If your home is not heated well, uninsulated, or your pipes are exposed to freezing temperatures, ice can form and cause serious water damage. Because water expands as it freezes, it puts pressure on pipes causing them to burst, break, or crack. To keep this from happening, prep your house for winter by removing water from hoses and turning off outdoor spigots. Keep the temperature in your home warm enough so your pipes can’t freeze, and, if you leave your house for more than a few days, consider turning off your water or having someone check on your home periodically.

6. Conduct Appliance Checks

Several times each year, inspect your appliances like your dishwasher, washing machine, refrigerator, and water heater for leaks. Appliances older than ten years may require more frequent inspections. In addition to the appliance itself, check the hoses attached for signs of deterioration and replace them when necessary or recommended.