Water damage can be costly and difficult to remedy. Luckily, there are some simple ways you can help avoid water damage at home by keeping up with regular maintenance. Here are some tips for reducing your risk of water damage:
Cleaning your gutters regularly can prevent blockage and ice dams. If you have debris preventing drainage, the weight from standing water can cause damage to the gutters and roof. Check your downspouts for clogs or leaks so you know that water is draining safely away from your foundation and walls.
When doing your landscaping, avoid planting trees or shrubs that could threaten your water pipes. Anything with a large root system should be planted a safe distance from utility lines so they do not cause damage to the pipes. If you already have problematic vegetation, you may need to have it removed.
If you find any sign of a leak inside or outside your home, it's best to deal with it right away. What might seem like a tiny drip can create a big problem very quickly, so don't hesitate to fix the problem or consult a professional for help. Handling leaks as soon as possible will help prevent damage from mold, mildew, dry rot and structural damage.
Leaky appliances are an extremely common cause of water damage at home. Unfortunately, they can also be difficult to notice until it's too late. Washing machines, refrigerators and dishwashers are often culprits, so make sure to check them regularly for any signs of leakage or faulty behavior. Keep all of the hoses and connectors in good condition and you'll avoid unpleasant surprises.
Sometimes you can learn about water issues by consulting your water bill. If you notice that your utility charge for water use is abnormally high, it's likely there is something leaking in your home. To find the cause, start with appliances, kitchen and bathroom fixtures. Also investigate pipes in your basement, crawlspaces and outside the home.
Most water-related property damage can be prevented with these tips. As long as you are aware and up-to-date on the condition of your plumbing, you'll be ready to handle any issue that might arise.
Shana Lundell has been a real estate professional since 2003 in Bourne, Cape Cod, Plymouth and the surrounding areas, where she’s lived since 2000. Shana is a luxury and waterfront specialist who has represented hundreds of buyers and sellers, including representing builders in over 100 new construction transactions in her career. She consistently achieves recognition awards for top production, including membership in the Coldwell Banker® International President’s Elite, an honor reserved for the Top 3% of agents globally. Shana ranks in the Top 100 of 4,000 Coldwell Banker agents in New England.
Shana works with a range of clients, including lifestyle properties, vacation residences, down-sizers, trade-up buyers, land, first-time home buyers, and new construction sales. She understands that moving happens for a myriad of reasons and has had the honor of helping all types of transactions. Many emotions can come into play during this time, but Shana is skilled at keeping calm and carrying on with care, professionalism, open communication, and the ability to keep things on target to achieve results. She guides her clients smoothly through the process, from dynamic marketing measures, negotiation and solution strategies, connecting pivotal professional resources, to coordinating the essential closing details.
Shana is proud to have over 100 five-star client testimonials that rave about her positive, professional, responsive, and authentic approach to real estate service. Love where you live. Live where you love. Looking to buy or sell? Call Shana Lundell!
