Pipes burst, toilets overflow, washing machine hoses break… water damage can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, and too often these things happen when we are away at work or on vacation—making a bad situation a really expensive one!

Did you know that water damage is among the leading causes of homeowner’s claims across the insurance industry?

Anyone who has dealt with a water issue at home, even a relatively small one, can speak to the utter devastation this can cause. The loss can sometimes be greater than the value of property that is destroyed—homes are places of memories, security, heirlooms and loved ones. Protecting our homes from water damage means so much more than the stuff it can protect!

Rebuilding a home—especially a custom home—to match prior quality, is a time-consuming undertaking. The frustrations that arise for you will take a toll on your work, your family – and your pocketbook. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the damage and your insurance, while you are dealing with a devastating loss and frustrations of dealing with a water-logged home, you may also see increased premiums. Even worse, you may find you have incomplete coverage, adding to the heartache.

As big a problem as this can be, there is a simple preventative solution. Just as central home and fire alarms have saved homes from the destruction of fire and spared personal valuables from theft, automatic water shut-off systems can also save the day when it comes to water loses.

There are generally two types of systems: flow-based and sensor-based. Both of these devices have sensors which will shut off the water to the house, preventing major damages. In a flow-based system, water-flow shut-off valves help prevent water damage by shutting off the water to an appliance when the volume reaches a preset level. A sensor-based system has sensors placed in high risk areas to signal the valves to close if they get wet or the temperature changes. Each system has its particular uses, and they can even be combined for maximum protection.

As homes become bigger and smarter than ever before – and the insurance industry continues to devote the necessary resources to loss prevention—this type of system has become available to the mainstream. Huge innovations in water shut-off technology have made this a reliable, and cost-effective tool for homeowners.   

Shut-off device technology systems can range from $5.99 to nearly $2,000 depending on the type, the home, and the complexity of the system. In some instances, your insurance agent may have contracted with companies to help with the installation process—so check in with your insurer to see if there are any advantages of one system or installer over another, or if there is any reduction in your premiums for choosing a particular solution.

Despite all of these efforts, water damage does happen. Working with an experienced agent will help educate you about the dangers and the tools to prevent loss, and also to help protect your home and assets in case of a water damage situation.