Summer Vacation Getaways – Water Damage Preparation

Everyone looks forward to their summer vacations, whether it be at the cottage, camping, or traveling. The warm water, swimming, the boat rides, BBQ’s and late-night campfires, what could be better? Preparing your home before you leave may be the last thing on your mind, but it is by far one of the most important! Nobody wants to come home to unexpected water damage in their home, so it is better to be safe than sorry and prep your home before leaving.

We have put together a checklist that you can go through before you leave for your vacation:

Connections:

• AC – make sure your AC is connected properly and all lines are secure. If it is a window unit, make sure that it is installed and hooked up per manufactures spec and the water can drain properly and far enough away from the house.
• Dehumidifiers - make sure that if you leave the unit on, the water has somewhere to drain properly. If the line is connected directly to your HVAC system, ensure that the hose is secure.
• Shut off valves in your toilet– make sure that the valves are in good working order.
• Fridge and Ice Makers – make sure the connection for your fridge ice maker is secure and no leakage can happen.

Windows:

• Closed windows if possible – unexpected rainfalls can occur in the high humidity weather that we have. If water comes into the property and dampens material, mold growth may start.
• Sprinkler Systems – it is best to turn them off, if they have to stay on, ensure that they cannot get into any windows.

Downspouts & Eaves troughs

• Eaves troughs – ensure that the eaves troughs are cleaned out and water can flow freely to the downspouts.
• Downspouts – ensure that the downspouts are attached properly and are draining the water far enough away from your house.

When it comes to the one of the issues listed above, your insurance may not cover if any of these if your house left unattended. It is always a good idea to have either a neighbour or a friend keep an eye on your property. Sometimes unexpected emergencies can happen, such as severe thunder with lightening and high winds can results in tree’s falling on your home and property or drain / sewer backups.

Anything unexpected, such as above, will be covered as long as you have someone keeping an eye on the property.

Any water damage can lead to mold growth so it is very important to catch it as soon as it happens. As long as things are dried up properly and quickly, there should be no mold growth.

If you follow the above guidelines to prep your home before your summer vacation that you should be free from any potential Water Damage surprises. 

However, if one does occur, you know you have Canada’s #1 Restoration Company behind your back! We offer 24/7 live customer service and can be on site with 45 minutes for any emergency. If in need, you know who to call 1-888-551-0514