No one likes to imagine water damage in their home, but it happens all the time – more than 30% of homeowner claims submitted are due to water damage – and they often lead to inconvenient and expensive repairs. Many water losses can be prevented or mitigated by an automatic water shut-off device that:

• Detects the flow of water through your pipes

• Automatically shuts off the water supply after a pre-determined time

• Provides custom protection with home and away modes

Water shut-off devices can prevent or mitigate damage from:

• Washing machine hose failure

• Sink, bathtub or toilet over-flows

• Ice maker failure

• Water heater leak or failure

• Water supply line failure

• Frozen or leaking pipes

There are two standard types of water shut-off systems: whole-house systems and point-of-use systems. While both can prevent water damage, you should consider a whole-house system as that is generally the only one that will qualify you for a premium credit on your homeowners insurance.

Whole-House Automatic Shut-Off Systems

While not every water loss can be prevented, many water losses could have been prevented or mitigated if an automatic water shut-off device had been installed in the home – automatic being the critical word here. Automatic water shut-off devices provide the best level of protection from water loss. They require no human interaction – they automatically detect a leak and automatically turn off the water to the home when a leak is detected, preventing further ongoing damage.

Whole-house automatic water shut-off systems that detect or prevent water damage from internal plumbing leaks usually are either time/flow-based or sensor-based. Each uses a different technology to detect leaks, and each can be tailored to match the needs, lifestyle and usage patterns of any homeowner. Regardless of whichever system is used, installation should be completed by a licensed plumber.

Point-of-Use Systems

Point-of-use systems are designed to monitor and shut off the water to a single water source such as a toilet, a sink, water heaters, washing machines or an HVAC unit. Single-appliance devices can typically be purchased for $75 to $150.

Assessing Your Water Damage Risk

Almost every home can benefit from the installation of an automatic water shut-off device. It may be especially cost-effective and less disruptive to add a system if your home is under construction or renovation because work is already being done. 

While any home can sustain damage from a water leak, the costs are even higher to a luxury home with high-end interior finishes or those containing fine arts, expensive appliances or other valuable articles.

Consider the water damage risks in your home, and arm yourself with knowledge to prevent the hassle and cost that come with a leak. Visit with your local, independent insurance agent for coverage advice. 

Questions about water shut-off devices and homeowners insurance? Contact Wallace & Turner at (937) 324-8492 in Springfield, (937) 652-8492 in Urbana, or info@wtins.com.