Ceilings, walls, pipes/plumbing/appliances, floors, moisture problems

What causes the water damage?

• Leaks or overflow from pipes, sinks, toilets or appliances
• Leaks or overflow from obstructed pipes, sinks or toilets
• Water overflow from pipes, sinks, baths, toilets, appliances, aquariums or waterbeds
• Leaks or overflow from improperly installed appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers
• Overflow or leak from a frozen or ruptured pipe
• Overflow from the hot water tank or rupture of the brass valve

What you can do

• Look for bubbling paint or stains on your ceiling, which can be the sign of a leaking pipe. It could also indicate water dripping from the roof, which is not covered under your basic home insurance. You’ll need to get the aboveground water damage endorsement for this type of protection.

• Look for water stains on your walls, which can indicate a leaking pipe.
• Feel your basement walls for evidence of flaking, dampness, stains or mould.
• If drywall has been exposed to water for less than 2 hours, you may be able to repair it.

• Install an accessible back-up valve to prevent water backup. You may consider installing more than one, depending on the plumbing system currently in place. Check with your plumber.
• Listen for unusual sounds which may indicate leaks in water lines or pipes.
• Repair leaky faucets and dripping toilets.
• Inspect your water heater, under sinks and behind washing machines.
• Be sure that hoses for dryers and washing machines are not damaged. If they are cracked or worn, replace them.
• Replace wax rings around toilets.
• When you’re on vacation, make sure to turn off your main water source to avoid hose rupture.

• Check your floors for discoloration. Water stains may be apparent in certain areas, such as near dishwashers and sinks.
• Keep your house plants on saucers to avoid water seeping into your floor.
• When taking a shower, turn on the exhaust fan to prevent condensation.

• Use a dehumidifier, if necessary, in damp areas such as basements.
• Be sure the air in your bathroom and kitchen is well vented to avoid condensation.
• Verify that your dryer is properly vented.