Protect Your Encinitas Home from Water Damage

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Into each life, some rain must fall, even here in Encinitas. There are few things that can be more destructive to a home and its contents than water damage. According to a report from the National Flood Insurance program, floods are the #1 natural disaster in the United States.

Water damage from excessive rainfall or damaged plumbing could cause irreparable damage to your home and belongings, but planning ahead could help you to protect yourself.
Recently, Realtor.org published a list of tips to help protect your home from water hazards. Following this advice could mean the difference between a drizzle and a monsoon.

1. Block Water from Entry Points

The most important thing to consider when protecting your Encinitas home from water is making sure the exterior is protected from water entry. Carefully examine your home for missing or damaged shingles, blocked gutters and downspouts, and cracked or weakened foundation walls and windows. Pipes should also be examined every 1-2 years to ensure they are structurally sound.

2. Put in a Second Line of Defense

Sump pumps work well for collecting water and directing it elsewhere, but require electricity to work. Purchasing a small generator for your sump pump in case of a power outage is a practical option. Also, French drains to collect water along your home’s perimeter and interior drain tiles to direct water into a drainage system are excellent ways to prevent water from accumulating.

3. Buy the Right Insurance

Even if your home isn’t in a high-risk zone, purchasing flood insurance is well worth the peace of mind, especially policies that cover all possibilities such as “sudden water damage.” It’s also a good idea to take inventory of your belongings, as well as photographs. Store them in a secure and waterproof location in case you need them for potential insurance claims.

4. Act Fast if Water Pours In

Permanent water damage can occur on contact, so time is most definitely a factor. Realtor.org recommends turning off pipes once water begins to flood in, and prioritizing the safety of people and pets before belongings. Damage restoration companies can help you determine where water has entered, and where it will go. They can even help to stop the flow of water, and decontaminate the area to prevent mold growth.

By Linda Moore

Office Listings

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.
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