How to deal with property water damage

Water issues can arise due to a number of different causes, including precipitation, weather-related events, underground sources, and improperly installed pipes during construction. If uncontrolled water sources are not dealt with quickly, it can lead to water damage spreading, or worse, property loss.

Most common cause of property water damage

Most water damage losses occur as a result of faulty workmanship. If contractors improperly install pipes and connections, it isn’t always obvious; it can take weeks or months before an issue is noticed, and by then, the damage may be significant.

Once a building has been constructed, with all interior finishes installed, water damage issues may not even be noticed until years later. By then, claims can get exponentially larger as water damage to drywall and finishing trim increases the cost of repairs.

What to do if your property has water damage

If your property has suffered water damage, it’s important to take it seriously and act quickly to prevent further damage (and further repair costs). What you do next depends on the type of water damage your property has suffered.

If your property has flooded, cutting off electricity and gas may be a good place to start.
From there, the source of the leak has to be found and patched up so no more damage can be done.
Next, the cleanup process can begin, which may mean pumping out water and removing damaged furniture, carpet, flooring, drywall, insulation, and more.
While cleaning, it’s important that you ensure the flooded area is well ventilated and dried out, to ensure no mold can grow. While things are drying, take another look at the source of the leak and make sure it is secure.
It’s time to start fixing and replacing things like cracks, insulation, windows, pipes, drywall, doors, interior finishes, and more.
At this point, you may want to look into waterproofing your property. You should also periodically inspect your property for signs of water damage.

For peace of mind, it may be a good idea to call in a professional for assistance with the remediation process and assessment.

10 signs your property may have water damage

Checking for water damage on your property may help you save thousands of dollars in repairs if you detect issues in their early stages. Here are signs to look for around your property:

Musty odors and feeling more dampness or humidity in the air
Wet spots on walls or the ceiling
Staining on the ceiling or walls
Mold on walls, carpets, and other surfaces
Warped or misshapen flooring
Peeling wallpaper and paint
Warped or misshapen drywall
Constant sound of running water, including dripping
Outdated plumbing
High utility bill

Is water damage covered by insurance?

Your policy may cover water damage, but rather than leaving things to chance, it would be a good idea to speak to your broker to find out for sure. If you currently don’t have business insurance to protect your business, you can get a quote with us today, or visit our commercial property insurance page to find out more.

This blog is provided for information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information and will not be responsible for any loss arising out of reliance on the information.