Protect your home this summer: Install water leak detectors in key areas and undertake outdoor projects to prevent water damage. Stay proactive with CAA Insurance’s guide.

Summer is the season for outdoor projects, backyard gatherings and well-deserved vacations. While you’re making the most of the warmer weather, it’s also a great time to take steps to protect your home from water damage.

Whether it’s sudden downpours, severe thunderstorms or unnoticed leaks while you’re away, water can cause significant damage in a short amount of time. Fortunately, a few proactive measures can help reduce your risk and protect your home throughout the summer months.

Install water leak detectors in key areas

Water leak detectors are an affordable and effective way to identify leaks before they become major problems. These devices can alert you when water is detected, allowing you to act quickly and potentially prevent costly repairs.

Consider installing water leak detectors in the following areas:

Bathrooms

Bathrooms contain multiple plumbing connections that can develop leaks over time. Place detectors:

  • under bathroom sinks
  • behind toilets
  • near bathtubs and showers

Kitchens

Kitchen appliances and plumbing fixtures can leak unexpectedly. Install detectors:

  • behind the refrigerator
  • under the kitchen sink
  • near the dishwasher

Basements

Heavy summer rain can put basements at risk of water intrusion. Place detectors:

  • under basement windows
  • around exposed pipes and plumbing connections

Appliances

Several household appliances can cause significant water damage if a leak goes unnoticed. Consider installing detectors near:

  • water heaters
  • washing machines
  • freezers with water lines or ice makers

Many modern leak detectors can connect to your smartphone, allowing you to receive alerts even when you’re away from home.

Outdoor projects that help prevent water damage

Summer is the perfect time to inspect your property’s exterior and tackle projects that help keep water away from your home.

Extend downspouts

During heavy rainfall, downspouts that discharge water too close to your home’s foundation can increase the risk of water entering your basement. Extending downspouts helps direct rainwater farther away from your home, reducing the likelihood of foundation issues and water intrusion.

Install flood shields

For homeowners in areas prone to flooding, flood shields can provide an added layer of protection. These barriers can help prevent water from entering through doors, window wells and other vulnerable areas during severe weather events.

Improve yard grading

Take a walk around your property after a heavy rainfall. If you notice standing water near your foundation, your yard may not be draining properly. Proper grading helps direct water away from your home, reducing the risk of water pooling around the foundation and finding its way indoors.

Install a backwater valve

Intense summer storms can overwhelm municipal sewer systems, increasing the risk of sewer backups. A backwater valve helps prevent wastewater from flowing back into your home, providing valuable protection against costly and disruptive damage.

Prepare for vacation season

If you’re planning a summer getaway, take a few extra precautions before you leave:

  • Check for signs of leaks around appliances and plumbing fixtures
  • Clear eavestroughs and downspouts to ensure water can drain properly
  • Consider shutting off the main water supply if your home will be vacant for an extended period
  • Ask a trusted friend, family member or neighbour to check on your home periodically

A small leak can become a major problem if it goes unnoticed for days or weeks.

Stay proactive

Water damage can happen any time of year, but summer provides the perfect opportunity to complete preventative maintenance projects and make improvements around your property. By installing water leak detectors, improving drainage and taking steps to protect your home from severe weather, you can help reduce the risk of costly water-related damage and enjoy the season.

Speak with CAA Insurance today to help you find trusted coverage that fits your needs and the savings you deserve. Call 1-833-673-3030 or visit carp.ca/caa-home.

CAA Insurance1 is CARP’s Recommend provider for auto, home, travel, life and pet insurance.

1 Please visit carp.ca/caa to see a list of underwriters covering various CAA insurance products. Not all products are available in all provinces. Terms and conditions apply.
®CAA trademarks are owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association. Logos and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Certain conditions, limitations and underwriting guidelines apply.