It can be extremely stressful when you find any of your plumbing appliances leaking water in your home. Beyond calling your local plumber, there are some steps you can take to protect your home, family, and belongings.
Shut Off the Water Supply
The first step after discovering a leak in your home is to immediately shut off the water supply to prevent further damage. Locate the main water shut-off valve, which is often found in a basement, crawl space, or near your water meter, and turn it off. If the leak is isolated to a specific fixture, such as a sink or toilet, you may be able to shut off the valve near that area too. Stopping the water flow can help minimize the extent of the damage while you address the situation.
Call a Plumber
After shutting off the water supply, your next move should be to contact a professional plumber. A qualified plumber can assess the situation, determine the cause of the leak, and provide necessary repairs. Even if the leak appears minor, it’s important to have a professional evaluate it, as unseen issues can escalate and cause more significant problems down the line. Be sure to provide the plumber with as much information as possible about the leak so they can arrive prepared with the right tools and equipment.
Clean Up Excess Water
While waiting for the plumber to arrive, it’s important to clean up any standing water to prevent further damage to your home. Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove water from the affected area. Standing water can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and damage to floors, walls, and personal belongings. Act quickly to dry out the space, and if the leak is extensive, consider using fans or dehumidifiers to help with the drying process.
Protect Your Belongings
If the leak has occurred in a room with valuable items, such as electronics, furniture, or documents, move them to a dry, safe location to prevent further damage. Water can cause irreversible harm to personal items, so act quickly to protect anything that may be at risk. For items that have already been damaged, consider documenting them for insurance purposes before moving them.
Document the Damage for Insurance
Take photos or videos of the affected areas and any damage caused by the leak. Documenting the situation can help when filing an insurance claim, as it provides evidence of the extent of the damage. Keep a record of any repair costs, as well as the plumber’s invoice, to support your claim. Contact your homeowner’s insurance provider to determine what coverage is available for water damage and to initiate the claims process if needed. Whether or not your leak is covered will likely depend on the type of leak and your exact insurance policy.
