5 Common Property Damage Claims and How to Avoid Them

What’s the most expensive mistake homeowners make? The answer is ignoring small maintenance issues until they turn into costly disasters. Some property damage is unavoidable, but a surprising amount can be prevented with some foresight.

Let’s take a look at five of the most common property damage claims and, more importantly, how to avoid them.

1. Water Damage: The Silent Destroyer

A slow drip can turn into a flood before you know it. Leaky pipes, clogged drains, and faulty appliances are among the top culprits of water damage claims. Here’s how to stay ahead of them:

Inspect pipes regularly. Pay close attention to connections under sinks, behind appliances, and around your water heater.

Upgrade weak spots. Replace rubber washing machine hoses with metal-reinforced ones.

Prevent backups. If you have a basement, install a sump pump and check it before the rainy season.

Seal problem areas. Check your roof and windows for leaks, especially before storm season.

Watch your water bill. A sudden spike could mean a hidden leak.

Property managers are crucial here, scheduling regular inspections and fixing minor leaks before they lead to more significant issues.

2. Kitchen Fires: A Recipe for Disaster

Cooking fires are a leading cause of home insurance claims, and most of them happen when someone steps away for “just a minute.” Stay safe with these simple steps:

• Never leave cooking unattended. That oil can ignite in seconds.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Make sure it’s rated for grease fires.
• Maintain your appliances. A buildup of grease in ovens and stovetops is a hidden fire hazard.
• Be cautious with space heaters. Keep them away from flammable materials.
• Test smoke alarms monthly. A dead battery won’t warn you in time.

Property managers can ensure fire safety standards are met by checking smoke detectors, enforcing no-open-flame policies where needed, and educating tenants on fire prevention.

3. Electrical Issues: Sparks Fly (and Not in a Good Way)

Faulty wiring and overloaded outlets can burn your house down. Avoid electrical fires by Using surge protectors. They prevent damage from sudden power surges. Also, don’t overload outlets. Power strips aren’t a long-term solution. Consider hiring a pro. If your lights flicker or outlets feel warm, call an electrician, don’t even think that you can handle it yourself. Next, replace old wiring. Houses built decades ago may not handle today’s power demands. Finally, check extension cords. Frayed wires or overheating cords are fire hazards.

And if you need guidance throughout the process, don’t hesitate to call professional property managers. Their job is to coordinate inspections and upgrades, ensuring homes are up to code and safe for residents.

4. Storm Damage: When Weather Strikes

Mother Nature doesn’t care about your insurance deductible. High winds, heavy rain, and hailstorms can wreak havoc. Minimize damage with these precautions:

Start by securing outdoor furniture. Flying debris can break windows and damage siding. Next, clean gutters regularly. Clogged gutters lead to roof leaks and foundation issues.

When re-roofing, choose durable materials, fo example, consider impact-resistant shingles. Moreover, trim weak tree branches. They can fall and damage roofs, cars, or power lines. Finally, check your insurance policy. Know what’s covered before disaster strikes.

Again, property managers can help by setting seasonal maintenance schedules and ensuring gutters are cleaned and roofs inspected before storm season hits.

5. Break-Ins: An Open Invitation

A burglary can mean not just loss of property but also loss of peace of mind. Make your home less of a target by:

Upgrading locks. Deadbolts and smart locks add an extra layer of security.

Installing security cameras. Even a visible dummy camera can deter criminals.

Making it look lived-in. If you’re away, use timers for lights and ask a neighbor to collect mail.

Locking windows and sliding doors. Burglars look for easy access points.

Avoiding social media oversharing. Announcing travel plans online can be an open invitation to thieves.

Property managers often oversee security improvements, ensuring rental properties have proper lighting, surveillance, and secure entry points.

Stay Ahead of the Damage

While no home is risk-free, preventative maintenance can save thousands in repairs and insurance claims. Taking proactive steps today can keep you from dealing with significant headaches tomorrow. If you still need help, call a local property manager. 

At Westrom Property Management, we make sure your property is taken care of in the best way possible and any damage is avoided. Call us today to discuss how we do it and how we can help you run a successful rental business.

Finally, stay alert, stay prepared, and keep your property in top shape!