Summer break is almost here! But before you start packing your bags for a quick visit to Hot Springs or a longer road trip, have you considered how to protect your home? If the thought of having a nice vacation ruined by coming back to extensive water damage in your home gives you anxiety, this article is for you.
As experts on water damage restoration, we have experienced firsthand the devastation an unchecked leak can cause in a home. Having served our Southern Arkansas neighbors for over a decade, we are aware of the fear that an incident may occur while the homeowner is not at home. And we are here to change that.
Today, we'll go through the key steps to protect your property from water damage while you're away. We will also discuss common causes of water leaks when going on vacation and more. So, let's get your home ready so you can enjoy a comfortable and worry-free summer break!
Why Vacant Homes Are Vulnerable to Water Damage
Data from the Insurance Information Institute (III) shows that property damage is by far the largest cause of insurance claims (97.8%) for the year 2022. Water damage and freezing were the second most common cause of loss, accounting for 27.6% of claims. With this in mind, you would think that most homeowners would be cautious about water damage during vacation time, right? Sadly, that's not the case.
According to a 2017 survey by Chubb Insurance, only 19% of homeowners considered internal water leak damage the most concerning threat while they were on vacation. This information comes as a shock, given how susceptible empty houses are to water-related issues. Let's take a look at the most common culprits of water damage while homeowners are away:
- Unchecked Leaks: A slow drip under a sink can go unnoticed for days or weeks, leading to significant water accumulation and potential mold growth.
- Appliance Malfunctions: Water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers can leak or even burst while you're away, causing flooding.
- Extreme Weather: Summer storms can bring heavy rainfall, potentially overwhelming drainage systems and leading to basement flooding. If your roof is damaged, it can lead to leaks and even flooding.
- Sump Pump Failure: If your home has a sump pump, a power outage or mechanical issue while you're away could result in a flooded basement.
Follow this Pre-Vacation Water Protection Checklist
Taking a few simple precautions before you leave for summer break can significantly reduce the risk of returning to water damage. Cross the items on this checklist to ensure a worry-free vacation!
☐ Find the Main Water Shut-Off Valve: Locate your main water shut-off valve, usually found in the basement, garage, or near the water meter.
☐ Shut Off the Main Water Supply: Turning off your home's main water supply is the most effective way to prevent unexpected leaks while you're away. Twist the handle before you head out for some fun this summer. Ensure the valve is completely closed to prevent unexpected leaks while you're away.
☐ Check Your Appliances: Inspect all water-using appliances for any signs of leaks or wear. Check for any damp spots or drips around:
- Water heater (especially if it's seen a few summers!)
- Washing machine
- Dishwasher
- Ice maker line on the fridge
☐ Turn Off Appliance Valves Too: This is important, especially for older units. Shut off their individual water lines for extra peace of mind.
☐ Sump Pump Check: If you have a sump pump, test it to ensure it's working correctly before you leave.
☐ Consider a Battery Backup for the Sump Pump: With summer storms and power outages, a backup battery could save you a mess.
☐ Clear Out Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clean and free of debris. Make sure rainwater can run away from your foundation, especially during the summer thunderstorms we get in South Arkansas.
☐ Inspect Your Indoors: Take a quick walk through your home and check for any existing leaks or signs of moisture. Keep an eye out for any wet spots around:
- Kitchen and Bathroom Sinks
- Toilets
- Around the Base of Appliances
☐ Fix Leaks Before Leaving: Don't put it off until you get back. A small leak can turn into a big problem while you're gone, enjoying the sunshine.
☐ Make an Outdoor Inspection: Check your outdoor faucets and hoses for leaks, and ensure they are turned off tightly.
☐ Ask a Friend (or Trusted Neighbor) to Check In: Consider asking a trusted friend or neighbor in your city to swing by your place every few days. They can keep an eye out for anything unusual, such as water seeping under a door. Make sure they have your phone number so they can reach you if something pops up.
☐ Get Some Water Leak Detectors: In this day and age, technology can be a real lifesaver. Consider installing water leak detectors in areas that are most likely to cause trouble, such as the basement, around the water heater, and under sinks. These handy gadgets can send alerts straight to your phone if they sense moisture. The fancier ones can shut off your water supply automatically. They can even tell you if it's getting too humid, which is a big deal in our neck of the woods.
☐ Install a Home Security System: If you don't have a friendly face nearby to check in, a home security system can be your remote eyes and ears. Even the basic systems can let you peek in on different parts of your house from your phone, no matter where you are. The more advanced systems (though they cost more) may include sensors for smoke, carbon monoxide, and even water and freezing temperatures, giving you a complete picture of what's going on back home.
☐ Inspect Your HVAC System: With our hot and sticky summers, your HVAC system works overtime. Before you leave, make sure to get it serviced by a certified local pro – someone like Glenn Mechanical, who knows our climate. A well-maintained AC unit will not only keep your bills down but also help control humidity inside your home, preventing water damage from condensation.
☐ Storm-Proof for Our South Arkansas Showers: We all know how quickly a sunny afternoon can turn into a frog-strangling downpour around here. Investing in things like storm shutters for your windows and impact-resistant windows can save you a lot of grief (and money) in the long run. They can protect your home from wind-driven rain and flying debris, which can easily cause broken windows and let water inside.
Signs You Need Professional Help
Despite your best efforts, sometimes the unexpected occurs. A pipe might burst due to unforeseen circumstances, or a severe storm could overwhelm your defenses. That's where water damage restoration companies come in. Here's when it's a good idea to call for water damage restoration services:
- Major leaks or flooding
- Standing water, you can't handle
- Signs of mold growth, like large patches or a musty smell
- Uncertainty about drying
- Sewage backup
Summer break should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, free from worries about your home. However, water damage while you're away can be a genuine source of concern that can spoil your vacation. By following Restore-It's checklist, you should have peace of mind knowing your home will be safe. If the unexpected happens and you need professional water damage restoration, call Restore-It immediately. Our team will quickly go to work, stopping the spread of the damage and working to get your home back to normal as soon as and as efficiently as possible.
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