7 Most Common Causes of Residential Water Damage

Water damage accounts for nearly 30% of all homeowners insurance claims—and in many cases, water damage isn’t even covered by insurance. Worse, the average water damage claim racks up a bill of upwards of $10,000 in damage.

Understanding the most common causes of residential water damage is the best way to avoid water damage. The experts at Matrix Mitigation Services, a leading water mitigation and damage restoration company serving NE Georgia, details these causes below.

7 Most Common Causes of Water Damage in Georgia

#1: Broken Pipes

A typical home has hundreds of feet of pipes for water supply and waste removal. Even a pin-hole in one of these pipes can spill hundreds of gallons of water rather quickly. Broken or cracked pipes are often caused by ground shifting, freezing, age-related corrosion, physical damage (such as being hit by a shovel or saw), and pressure from clogs.

Regular plumbing maintenance, proper drain care, and taking the time to locate lines before beginning construction projects can help minimize the risk of plumbing-related residential water damage.

#2. Extreme Weather

Georgia is no stranger to storms and extreme weather, which causes billions of dollars in water damage yearly. Heavy rainfall and flooding are both common causes of residential water damage that, sadly, often aren’t covered by insurance without a special rider.

It’s best to have a sump pump installed and ensure proper property drainage. However, in the event of water exposure, it’s also vital to contact a water damage restoration company immediately. Even if the flooding is minor and the area seems dry, moisture in building materials can lead to mold growth in less than 48 hours.

#3. Malfunctioning Appliances

Many home appliances, such as dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines, require a water supply and potentially drainage lines. Damage to these lines or seals within the machine can lead to leaks and water damage.

Unfortunately, beyond keeping up with regular maintenance and replacing aging units promptly, there’s isn’t much that can be done to prevent appliance-related water damage. Keep a close eye out for signs of leaks, such as:

•         Unexplained moisture or musty odors near the unit
•         Mold growth or discoloration on floors, walls, or ceilings (below the unit)
•         Sudden high humidity in the room
•         Water bill increases

#4. Clogged Gutters

Gutters work to redirect water away from a building. Over time, they can become clogged with leaves, branches, and other debris. Water can spill over clogged pipes and pool near foundations, leading to water damage. Gutters should be cleaned about twice per year and checked regularly for proper flow.

#5: Broken Sump Pump

Sump pumps typically work to remove water during a flood, and as mentioned, are great protection against weather-related water damage. However, they can also provide a false sense of security. Undiscovered sump pump failures can lead to extensive basement, foundation, and crawl space damage. Remember to keep up on annual maintenance and verify your sump pump is functional during heavy rains or flooding events.

#6: HVAC Leaks

Air conditioners also act to reduce humidity in a space as their method of operation removes moisture from the air. That also means that AC drainage lines can be a source of residential water damage if they are damaged or blocked. HVAC leaks are another common cause of water damage best avoided by regular maintenance.

#7: Clogged Drains

Similar to pipe and HVAC leaks, clogged drains are another common cause of water damage. Over time, soap, hair, and debris can prevent water and waste from draining properly. That blockage can lead to backflow and flooding or build pressure and burst the pipe.

 

To avoid clog-related water damage, consider installing drain screens, avoid putting grease down the drain, and never flush anything but toilet paper and waste.

About Matrix Mitigation Services

Matrix Mitigation Services provides high-quality water damage inspection, removal, and restoration services in all of NE Georgia. They also offer 24-hour emergency response and have experience working with all major insurance companies.