A major concern for most homeowners in Miami is water damage in their properties. Because the most common and most expensive insurance claim filed by homeowners is water damage.
Water damage in Miami is the most common homeowner’s insurance claim, second only to wind and hail damage. Unlike hail and wind damage, water damage in Miami occurs all year-round.
Buildings are made of pipes, drains, sinks, and basins to handle water in a controlled manner. Water should never run unchecked in crawl spaces, basements, floors, or walls. You can also avoid having to hire a contractor for costly repairs by performing simple repairs that can prevent everything from minor water damage to major water damage.
What are the causes of water damage to homes?
A dramatic event such as a hurricane or flood does not always result in water damage. Many homes are damaged by tiny leaks in a damaged pipe, grading problems, blocked gutters, or broken sump pumps. Most do-it-yourselfers are able to fix most easily reversible water damage before it causes any major damage.
A house that has been damaged by water can be devastating. The rot and mold damage that develop from even a slow leak eventually weaken structural elements like joists and beams if left unchecked. In order to prevent water damage, stop leaking immediately before the first drop begins to fall.
The effects of water damage can be devastating financially as well. In most cases, homeowners insurance will cover the cost of repairs. However, homeowners will still be responsible for parts and labor out of pocket due to deductibles and coverage limits. Preventing potential problems before they arise is the best solution. But if the inevitable arises, make sure to get in touch with your public adjuster in Miami to help you with the next steps to maximize your insurance claims.
Tips to prevent water damage in your home
Make sure you know how to shut off the water main. Water main shut offs are some of the most important plumbing components in the entire house. The water main in your house supplies water to your whole house. Your home receives water from the water main, which is then distributed to other pipes.
You will be able to turn off the water right away if you experience a plumbing emergency in your home if you know where the water main shutoff is located.
If you will be gone for a long time, you should also shut off your water main. Chances are your home will not be damaged by faucet drips if no water enters your house.
Keep your appliances in good condition. Appliances are the most common cause of water damage in Miami. Make sure you regularly maintain your appliances according to their manufacturer’s instructions to avoid leaks.
The washer and refrigerator hoses should also be checked closely. Water leaks happen most frequently when these become old and brittle. They are the most frequent reason for homeowner water loss.
Gutter and downspout maintenance. Standing water can cause water damage to gutters and roofs, and unmanaged overflows can create puddles that may damage your foundation. Avoid ice dams and blockages by cleaning your gutters at least twice a year. Make sure any downspouts are clean as well, so that water can flow and make sure any downspouts are pointed away from your home.
Remove the hoses from the faucet. One of your fall chores should be disconnecting your hoses from the faucet. In worst cases, standing water in a hose can freeze back and cause pipe damage or create an ice block that can obstruct your water flow and potentially cause damage to walls, floors, and foundations.
It is important to check your water pressure. Water pipes and hoses can break under pressure if your home’s water pressure is too high. Purchase a water pressure gauge at a local hardware store, attach it to an outside faucet, and turn the faucet up to full pressure. Water pressure in the home can be determined by the gauge.
Most residential water systems are designed for water pressure between 40 and 70 psi. Install a pressure regulator if your home’s water pressure is more than 100 psi.
Water bills should be closely monitored. A closer look at your water bill can sometimes reveal that water is leaking. When your water usage jumps by a substantial amount without explanation, you need to investigate the cause immediately. Do you have a leak in your crawlspace? Or is that a pipe outside your home?
Leaks should be investigated and fixed immediately. Inspect your home immediately if you notice signs of leaking water. Be prepared to experience mold, mildew, dry rot, or even structural damage to your home if you ignore those leaks or postpone making necessary repairs. You should watch out for mildew smells, wet floors, dripping or rushing water, among other signs.A homeowner’s insurance policy covers accidental and sudden damage. Typical homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage that results from lack of maintenance. If you find a sign of water damage immediately contact your public adjuster in Miami for tips and advice on your next steps to make sure you get the most out of your insurance claims.
