Have you ever dealt with water damage in your home? If so, you know it can happen in a matter of seconds and it doesn’t take long to cause incredible damage.

Here are a few ways to help determine your home’s water damage risk so you can address any potential red flags before it’s too late!

The Age of Your Plumbing

If the plumbing in your home is old, there’s a better chance of pipes rusting, breaking, or causing other problems. This is one reason older homes have a greater risk of water damage.

New homes aren’t immune to water damage from plumbing either, but they’re often covered by warranties from the builder.

The Buildup of Snow and Ice on Your Roof

When a significant amount of snow or ice accumulates on your roof, it greatly increases your risk of water damage. The snow and ice can melt and back up into your home. Often, the damage will be hidden in the attic and homeowners won’t realize it’s happening until the damage is catastrophic.

If your roof has more than two feet of snow or more than two inches of ice, hire a snow removal company to clear your roof, because doing so on your own poses safety risks.

The Condition of Your Basement

Basements are notorious for flooding issues, so there are things you should be on the lookout for so this doesn’t happen to you.

  • The slope of the ground
  • Ineffective drains
  • Improperly sealed basement windows
  • Cracks in the foundation

Your Proximity to Water

Living near a body of water might never cause you any problems, but all too often, these bodies can overflow and result in flooding of the land and property around them.

If you live in close proximity to water, be sure to speak to your insurance company about your options for financially protecting yourself. You can also consult with experts for advice in protecting your home from water damage.

If you have questions about insuring your home for water damage, get in touch with Fargo Moorhead Insurance today!