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The Water Damage Prevention
CHECKLIST
Outdoors
- Clear gutters ofleaves and debris at least once a year (late Fall)
- Make sure your asphalt roof shingles are not worn or curling
- Drain the pipe when you pack your garden hose away for the winter
- Seal any cracks and holes in exterior walls, joints and foundations.
Indoors
- On appliances or plumbing fixtures, replace plastic or rubber water lines with flexible steel braided hoses
- If you're away for more than four consecutive days during the heating season, have someone check the
heating system daily, or shut off the water and drain the pipes before you leave
- Regularly clean off and dry all surfaces where moisture frequently collects.
- Properly insulate and ventilate your atticv
- Regularly check your hot water tank for leaks
- Consider connecting your plumbing and heating system to a 24-hour monitored alarm service
In the Basement:
- Do not cover your floor drains
- Store items in plastic storage containers on raised shelving
- Check your basement for leaks after heavy rainfall
Get professional help to:
- Install a sewer backup prevention valve on your home's main line
- Create a sump pit and install a sump pump with reliable back-up power
- Ensure waste water pipes are not blocked by tree roots
- Disconnect downspouts draining directly into the sewer system and redirect them at least 6 feet away from
your home's foundation.
- Ensure that your lot is graded to aid drainage away from your home.
- If you have a septic system, have it serviced regularly
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