Contact:
Karl Newman, President
Darrin Sanger, Communications Director
NW Insurance Council
Phone: (206) 624-3330
Fax: (206) 624-1975
karl.newman@nwinsurance.org
darrin.sanger@nwinsurance.org
Regular home maintenance is key to preventing water
damage
SEATTLE – Autumn is almost here and that
means heavy rains for thousands of Northwest homeowners.
It also means that it’s time to think about preparing your
home against the number-one insurance claim – water damage.
Water damage
accounted for more than one-third of all homeowner claims
in 2001. The average water damage claim costs more than $4,700.
Excessive
amounts of water can rot drywall and support beams, crack
foundation walls and cause mold. Standard homeowners policies
don’t cover water damage unless it is the result of a covered
peril such as a broken water pipe, flood, fire or windstorm.
Since damage from roof leaks, excessive condensation or poor
landscaping are normally excluded, you are responsible for
the maintenance of your home.
Most water
damage losses are easily preventable by taking some simple
maintenance steps. The NW Insurance Council offers these
tips to help you prevent future damage and thousands of dollars
in repair costs:
- If you find a leak, clean and dry the exposed area
and fix the problem immediately.
- Routinely inspect ceilings, walls, floors and window sills
for water stains, discoloration and musty odors.
- Remove leaves, branches and debris from gutters to prevent
water blockage and possible run-off into the home.
- Routinely inspect attics, vents, ducts washer hoses and
outside water sources for leaks.
- Check and replace heating system air filters.
- Properly ventilate bathrooms and kitchens to prevent a
moisture buildup.
For free brochures, Protect Your Home From Water Damage
and a Maintenance Guide For Your Home, contact NW Insurance
Council at (206) 624-3330 or (800) 664-4942.
NW Insurance Council is a nonprofit, consumer education
organization funded by member insurance companies.
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