Water damage inside the home is one of the most costly and disruptive events a homeowner can face. According to the Insurance Information Institute, about 1 in 4 home insurance claims are because of water-related problems, like leaks, pipes or other things freezing and breaking. The repairs can cost over $11,000 to fix and get covered by insurance. Good news is most of these issues are preventable with simple proactive measures.

Start with the Basics: Temperature and Monitoring

In the colder months, your thermostat isn’t just to stay cozy and warm, but it’s also your first line of defense. Setting your thermostat no lower than 60°F (15°C) can help prevent frozen pipes, which often burst when thawing, causing extensive flooding. Another good hack is to let faucets drip during extremely cold weather to keep water moving and install insulation on exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements or attics.

Technology can be a valuable asset by providing water leak detection systems. These devices can automatically shut off your water supply if a leak is detected, greatly reducing potential damage. According to a study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 10% of homes have leaks that waste 90 gallons of water or more per day. This can be damaging to the environment, especially areas with drought. Early detection systems can help cut this waste significantly and save you money.

Small Habits Have Big Impacts

Doing small things every day can help prevent big water problems. For example, after you flush the toilet, wait until it’s done refilling. In case something goes wrong and it starts to overflow, you can catch it quickly and turn off the water. Also, it’s smart to check inside your toilet twice a year. Parts such as the flapper and fill valve can wear out and leak without you noticing, which could lead to high water bills or even damage overtime.

Regularly inspect your water heater as well. They can typically last up to 8-12 years. If your water heater is leaking or has rust, it likely means it’s getting old and should be replaced before it fails completely. For your washing machine, using braided steel hoses is a safer choice than rubber ones which can break more easily and cause big water messes.

Think Beyond the House Walls

Your plumbing system goes beyond what’s inside your house. Trees with aggressive roots can damage underground sewer lines, especially in older homes with weaker pipes. Keeping trees at a safe distance can save you thousands by helping you avoid costly repairs like digging up and replacing broken pipes.

If you’re heading out of town, take an extra minute to shut off your home’s water supply valves. Even a small drip left unchecked for a weekend can lead to warped floors or mold growth and neither of those is a fun surprise to come home to.

Know the Signs of Trouble

Don’t wait for a puddle to appear before acting. Call a plumbing professional if you notice:

  • Unexpectedly high water bills
  • Banging or “hammering” pipes
  • Rust stains around drains or fixtures
  • Damp spots on walls or floors
  • Soil erosion or soggy ground near your home’s foundation

These are often early signs of hidden leaks or faulty plumbing. Addressing them early can prevent not only water damage but also mold growth, which the CDC notes can begin forming in as little as 24–48 hours after water exposure.

By taking a few simple steps and staying aware of early warning signs, homeowners can avoid the stress and high costs of water damage. Prevention isn’t just cheaper, it’s smarter.