There are many responsibilities homeowners must deal with on a daily or weekly basis. Basic landscaping, mortgage payments, pet ownership, and monthly expenses are a few common ones. Still, homeowners must ensure their property remains safe for themselves and their loved ones. Be aware of the four most common causes of property damage so that you avoid any significant issues.
Water
Water damage is one of the most common causes of property damage. Your plumbing system, rainwater, and broken gutters all cause water or moisture damage to your property. Water damage is not something to neglect. It can have dire consequences on your home, from flooding to foundation cracks and mold growth. If you suspect higher moisture content in your home, check to see where it’s coming from. If water fixtures or broken pipes are the sources of the issue, call a plumber. Call a foundation repair crew if water is pooling in your crawlspace or basement.
Severe Weather
Severe weather also threatens the safety of a home—it’s even one of the largest causes of foundation issues. Wind, hail, ice, and snow all lead to property damage if you’re not careful. Severe wind and hail can disrupt your gutter system, leading to clogs and water pools. Inclement weather can also damage your roof, siding, fascia, and front door. Take all precautionary measures before a storm occurs to stay safe and mitigate property damages.
Fire
Fire is another one of the four most common causes of property damage. Fires occur for a myriad of reasons. Unmonitored lit candles, grease fires, and smoking indoors can all lead to a fire in the home. The main thing you must do is monitor all lit candles or open flames. Make sure to watch all lit stove tops and avoid burning hot oil. If a grease fire occurs, never put water on it, as this can spread the flames. In this scenario, you can use baking soda to extinguish the flame instead. It’s also wise for homeowners to have fire blankets and fire extinguishers on hand.
Theft
The last contributor to property damage is theft. No homeowner wants to become a theft victim. Therefore, save yourself the trouble and install an anti-theft alarm system in your home. There are many camera and alarm systems you can install around your home’s perimeter to ensure no intruders break in. You also want to make locking all doors and windows before bed part of your everyday routine. This reduces opportunities for thieves to break in. Additionally, many homeowners leave their garage door openers in their cars, which can pose a risk as well. It’s essential to hide the garage door opener in a secure location or park your vehicle in the garage.