Water Damage Prevention Checklist

Water is responsible for more home insurance claims than fire—and it usually strikes quietly. A slow drip, a clogged gutter, a cracked hose, or a failed seal can cause thousands in damage before you even notice. This checklist eliminates the most common failures so you never get blindsided by water.

For related protection steps, see Storm Readiness Checklist, Home Appliance Safety Checklist, and Insurance Document Checklist.

1. Plumbing and Pipes

[ ] Inspect under sinks for moisture, stains, or active drips.
[ ] Check toilet bases for wobble or moisture rings.
[ ] Replace aging supply lines with braided steel hoses.
[ ] Know where the main water shutoff valve is and test it yearly.

2. Water Heater and Utility Area

[ ] Check for corrosion, leaks, or rust at the base of the tank.
[ ] Test the temperature relief valve annually.
[ ] Ensure proper drainage routing for the overflow pan.
[ ] Replace heaters older than 10–12 years before failure.

3. Appliances That Use Water

[ ] Inspect washer hoses for bulging or cracking.
[ ] Clean dishwasher filters and check for leaks during cycles.
[ ] Verify fridge water lines are secure and not kinked.
[ ] Never run dishwashers or washing machines when you’re away.

4. Roof, Gutters, and Drainage

[ ] Inspect roof for missing shingles and damaged flashing.
[ ] Clear gutters of leaves and debris before rainy seasons.
[ ] Confirm downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
[ ] Look for standing water around the home after storms.

5. Windows, Doors, and Exterior Seals

[ ] Re-caulk windows with cracked or missing sealant.
[ ] Inspect door sweeps and weatherstripping for gaps.
[ ] Check stucco or siding for cracks where water could enter.
[ ] Verify window wells are clear and draining.

6. Bathrooms and Kitchens

[ ] Look for soft spots, warped flooring, or staining under sinks.
[ ] Ensure tub and shower caulking is clean and intact.
[ ] Check grout lines for cracks and moisture seepage.
[ ] Test exhaust fans to reduce humidity buildup.

7. Basements and Crawlspaces

[ ] Look for pooling water, dampness, or musty smells.
[ ] Install or test sump pumps if applicable.
[ ] Ensure vapor barriers are intact.
[ ] Seal foundation cracks before they widen.

8. Irrigation, Landscaping, and Yard

[ ] Check sprinklers for overspray hitting the home exterior.
[ ] Verify irrigation timers aren’t over-watering.
[ ] Grade soil so water slopes away from structures.
[ ] Watch for erosion or sinkholes after heavy rain.

9. Early Detection Tools

[ ] Install water leak sensors under sinks and behind appliances.
[ ] Use smart shutoff valves if the home is often vacant.
[ ] Add humidity monitors in bathrooms and basements.
[ ] Check meter readings for unexplained water usage.

10. Annual Review and Documentation

[ ] Review leak-prone areas during your Home Safety Annual Review.
[ ] Photograph vulnerable spots for comparison each year.
[ ] Replace worn parts before failure—hoses, valves, seals, and caulking.
[ ] Keep receipts for repairs in case of future insurance claims.

Water damage is expensive, miserable, and almost always preventable. A few simple checks every season dramatically cut your risk and keep your home dry year-round.