Water damage is one of the leading causes of costly repairs in homes across the country. It can sneak up on you—from a dripping pipe hidden behind a wall to clogged gutters overflowing during a storm. Left unchecked, water can ruin flooring, warp furniture, grow mold, and even weaken your home’s structure.

The bright side? Most of it is preventable with a little regular maintenance. Below are smart, easy-to-follow tips that can help you avoid unexpected water damage and the high costs that come with it.

Keep Your Roof in Check

– Your roof takes the brunt of every storm, so it’s no surprise that even small issues up top can lead to big problems below.
– Inspect your roof twice a year, especially after severe weather. Look for missing, curled, or cracked shingles, sagging areas, or signs of water pooling.
– Remove debris like leaves and branches. These can hold moisture and wear down your roofing materials faster.
– Check around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Cracked caulking or loose flashing in these areas is a common source of leaks.
– It’s smart to get a professional inspection once a year, even if everything looks okay from the ground.

Don’t Let Gutters Get Clogged

– Gutters are there to direct rainwater away from your home. But when they’re clogged, water can back up and seep into your roof, walls, or foundation.
– Clean gutters at least twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall.
– Ensure downspouts are connected properly and carry water several feet away from your house.
– Install gutter guards to help prevent leaves and debris from piling up.
– After a heavy rain, walk around your home. Pooled water near the foundation is a red flag that drainage isn’t working properly.

Stay Ahead of Indoor Leaks

– Leaking pipes or appliances often start small and unnoticed—but they can do major damage over time.
– Inspect under sinks and around appliances like dishwashers and washing machines for signs of leaks, rust, or corrosion.
– Replace old or worn-out supply hoses on appliances every few years.
– Watch for stains or soft spots on ceilings, walls, or floors—these often signal a hidden leak.
– Install smart leak detectors in key areas like behind the washing machine or under the water heater for early warning.

Give Your Water Heater Some Love

– Water heaters are one of the most common sources of home flooding, especially as they age.
– Drain the tank once a year to clear sediment buildup, which can cause rust and inefficiency.
– Check the temperature and pressure relief valve regularly to make sure it’s not stuck.
– If you notice rust, moisture, or a metallic odor, get it inspected or replaced.
– Water heaters typically last about 8–12 years. If yours is getting old, consider replacing it before it fails.

Safeguard Your Basement

– Because they’re below ground level, basements are naturally prone to moisture and flooding.
– Install a sump pump, and test it regularly, especially before rainy seasons.
– Run a dehumidifier to reduce humidity and prevent mold growth.
– Seal visible cracks in the walls or floor with waterproof material.
– Consider using a waterproof paint or sealant on basement walls for extra protection.

Seal Up Windows and Doors

– Gaps and cracks around windows and doors allow rain to sneak in—especially during strong winds or storms.
– Inspect caulking and weatherstripping yearly and replace any that’s worn out or cracking.
– Reseal or repaint wooden frames to prevent water damage and rot.
– Make sure window wells are clean and have proper drainage to keep water from pooling near your windows.

Check Your Yard’s Drainage

– Water should always flow away from your home—not toward it.
– Make sure your yard is graded properly so water runs away from the foundation.
– Avoid planting large trees or shrubs too close to the house—their roots can shift soil and affect drainage.
– Keep storm drains and grates free of debris to allow water to flow freely.
– If water often pools around your home, it may be time to consult a landscaper or drainage expert.

Maintain Your Sprinkler System

– Sprinklers and irrigation systems can cause water damage if they’re not maintained.
– Inspect sprinkler heads and lines regularly for leaks or damage.
– Adjust sprinklers so they’re not spraying directly at your home.
– Keep an eye on your water bill—an unexpected spike may signal an underground leak.

Know How to Shut Off the Water

– In case of a plumbing emergency, acting fast is critical.
– Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve and make sure everyone in your household knows where it is.
– Test the valve occasionally to ensure it still works.
– Keep a wrench or water key nearby if your shut-off valve requires one.

Do Routine Checks and Inspections

– Preventing water damage is all about being proactive.
– Create a seasonal maintenance checklist for inspecting your roof, gutters, plumbing, and appliances.
– Schedule a professional inspection every few years to spot problems you might miss.
– Don’t ignore even small drips or discoloration—they’re often signs of bigger issues to come.

Prevention is Always Cheaper
You don’t need expensive equipment or major renovations to protect your home from water damage. Just a few hours of maintenance each season can save you thousands in repairs, mold removal, and replacement costs.

By being proactive, paying attention to your home, and making a habit of routine checks, you can keep your property dry, safe, and stress-free—no matter what the weather brings.