Home flooding not only happens to people living near large bodies of water or below sea level. It doesn’t discriminate and might happen anytime for many reasons. But don’t let this statement get you down. There are simple steps that can help improve your home’s flooding problem. However, the type of preventive measures you’ll take will depend on the causes of your home’s flooding risks.

So let’s discuss the common culprits of flooding to help you strategize should a flood find its way to your home.

What causes home flooding?

There are two kinds of flooding, one that a homeowner can address and another that can’t be prevented. Although there are causes of flooding that can’t be prevented, knowing them can help you prepare and act responsively when it occurs. Below are the five top causes of indoor flooding.

1. Leaking pipes

Broken or leaking pipes are among the biggest reasons for home flooding. Pipes leak or burst due to wear-and-tear issues, rust, incorrect installation, or changes in water pressure. A burst pipe can flood your home in minutes, causing extensive water damage to its structure and contents. Home flooding comes with health risks like mold growth, so homeowners should invest in proper structural restoration to maintain their property.

Does your home have water damage waiting to be repaired? Contact a property damage restoration company immediately to prevent worsening the situation.

2. Faulty appliances

Household appliances are common culprits of water damage and home flooding. Unfortunately, home appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters can malfunction from time to time and may cause catastrophic situations for your home when they do. Typically, older appliances or those that have worked hard for many years have more issues. This is why keeping a close eye on your appliances’ water lines as they age is essential.

Repair any bursts or cracks before the problem worsens and causes water damage to your home. Otherwise, you’ll need to hire a restoration company to address the water damage caused by your faulty appliances. You may click here to see the professional services offered by restoration contractors.

3. Clogged drains

Hair, dirt, grease, and other substances can quickly clog drains and cause them to become inoperable. Leaking or burst pipes are common, and so is structural damage. Illnesses, diseases, and aggravation of health conditions may occur from simply neglecting drain cleaning. Left neglected, clogged drains can damage other places in the home. Pour boiling water into the drain once a month to dissolve soap scum, grease, and debris before it clogs your pipes.

4. Poor drainage

Floods caused by poor drainage are a huge inconvenience and a hazard that can ruin your walls, fixtures, and floorings. Opting for professional sewer lines and plumbing repair is less pricey than repairing flood damage due to poor drainage.

5. Natural disasters

Snowstorms, hurricanes, and breaking dams can bring excessive water into a home, resulting in a flood. Flood alarms and warning systems can help protect a home against natural disasters. If you reside in a coastal area, purchasing additional flood insurance may help. Consider grading your lawn away from home or raising it on stilts to prepare for floods. If you need to leave your house for extended periods, consider doing this to prevent unwanted surprises when you return.