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Our team at Aftermath Adjusters handles many insurance claims for disasters that could have been avoided. Often, it comes down to whether or not the property owner knew what to look for before the damage happened. Therefore, we have put together a list of tips to help you prevent water damage and loss to your property.

TIP #1: Check Plumbing Every 6-12 Months

This includes inspecting:

  • Dishwashers
  • Garbage disposals
  • All visible pipes
  • Shut-offs
  • Washing machine hoses

Make sure that nothing is broken and that the connections are in good condition to prevent water damage. If something is corroded, contact your plumber right away to change out the pipes.

Tip #2: Inspect Your Water Heater

Hot water heaters usually last about 10 to 12 years and often have a 10-year warranty. There are certain signs that help indicate whether your water heater is failing or in need of repair. For example, you may notice that you have to keep turning up the temperature to get any hot water. Also, the amount of time the water stays hot is short, or there is no consistency in the water temperature. Additionally, if you notice the heater has signs of corrosion, it is a good idea to replace it.

TIP #3: Test out the Sump Pump

In order for a sump pump to be the most effective, it needs to be in a deep enough pit. To figure out the appropriate depth required, you will need to know where your water table is located. Make sure the pump is working properly by pouring water into the pit. Also, check to see that the pump is draining out far enough away from the property. Depending on your land, you will want the drain to be at least 10 feet out from the foundation and draining in the opposite direction of the property.

TIP #4: Service Your Hot Water Boiler

If your business or home is heated by a forced hot water boiler, be sure to have it serviced once a year. Make sure to inspect the boiler for any signs of corrosion such as green and white residue on the boiler, or drips of rusty water around it.

TIP #5: Inspect the Humidifier

With a direct drain humidifier, you will need to check and see that the hoses are draining correctly. If you have one that doesn’t require drainage, be sure to routinely check the shut-off for any problems.

TIP #6: Watch the Garden Hose

Keep an eye out while the kids are outside playing with the garden hose so that they don’t use it near the basement windows. This may seem like an unimportant way to prevent water damage, but you’d be surprised how often this happens.

Even after taking these precautions, you may still suffer damage to your property. If this is the case, give us a call right away. Our licensed public adjusters can help you determine whether or not our services are necessary. We can do this by looking at the scale of the damage and the size of your claim, as well as giving you guidance as to how you should proceed.

We are more than happy to help, and the advice is free! You won’t be under any contract or obligation as we answer your questions and concerns. There are a number of benefits to hiring a public adjuster when dealing with property damage and loss. We will handle your claim and negotiate with your insurance company on your behalf.  This makes the process less stressful for you, and opens the possibility of a higher insurance settlement than you may get on your own.

Give Aftermath Adjusters & Consulting LLC a call today, at 954-329-2456.