Stop Water Leaks the Second They Start!
According to the Insurance Information Institute, 23.8% of all insured homeowners’ losses were in the category ‘Water Damage & Freezing’ with an average claim value of $10,849. Approximately one in 50 insured homes has a ‘Water Damage or Freezing’ claim each year.
So, what is a homeowner to do?
Consider using a ‘smart’ leak detector and a water shut-off valve that uses the home’s WiFi network to prevent or mitigate water damage. ‘Smart’ leak detectors use complex algorithms in conjunction with wireless leak sensors on your water system to sense leaks as small as a single drop of water. Upon identifying a leak, the detector will immediately send a signal to a water shut-off valve to shut down the water supply.
The leak detectors can also sense freezing.
Additionally, the ‘smart’ leak detector can be integrated into a central alarm system and notify the homeowner of any leak or potential for frozen pipes via a smartphone app.
A premium credit may be offered for a water shut-off system monitored by a qualified central station facility. Please contact your OceanPoint agent to determine eligibility for a premium credit.
Typically, there are two styles of installation:
Professionally Installed Systems: the shut-off valve is installed directly into the water line and communicates with the wireless leak sensors via the WiFi network. It offers the homeowner the ability to turn the water off via a smartphone app or turn the water off automatically upon sensing a leak, high water usage or the potential for frozen pipes.
DIY Systems: are ‘bolt-on’ systems and fit directly onto the 1/4 turn water valve. The system will open/close the water cut-off valve when it senses a leak via a drive motor. The sensors connect to the leak detector via WiFi. The system is set up and controlled via a smartphone app.
Other water damage prevention recommendations:
- Don’t keep it a secret; ensure everyone in your household knows where the water shut-off is located.
- Always shut off the water supply to your house when you are going away for more than two days.
- Use stainless steel braided hoses on your washing machine, dishwasher, toilet, and sink water supply lines. Inspect the hoses regularly.
- Every month, check the overflow pan, condensation line, or overflow valve of your air conditioner and water heater. Also, check behind appliances with water lines for leaks or moisture and check for signs of rust, corrosion, wear and tear. If you see any damage replace the lines before they become a problem.
- A few times each year, check and repair caulking around the windows and doors.
- Semi-annually, check your gutters, grout around bathtubs and showers, inspect all roofing materials as well as sump pumps and battery backup systems.
- Every year, drain your water heater and inspect for signs of rust, corrosion, or excessive wear and tear. Also, check the pressure relief valve and install a drip pan around the heater’s base.
If a water loss does occur, please contact a licensed professional such as:
An investment of several hundred dollars may save you several thousands of dollars in water damage and a lot of inconveniences.
OceanPoint Insurance does not endorse the products shown above, they have been used for illustrative purposes only. For more information about these products:
