Water leak detectors have sensors sense when water stops flowing through their normal channels, a condition that usually signifies a leak. You can program some leak detectors to determine when they can cut off the water supply. A smart leak detector even alerts you if it detects a leak.

Below is an overview of leak detectors and their connection to home insurance. 

Causes of Water Leaks

Water leaks occur due to a variety of factors. For example, water pipes can freeze and burst during winter if they encounter freezing air. Old pipes also burst due to accumulated wear and tear. Even negligent repairs can result in problems that end up causing water leaks.

Dangers of Water Leaks

Water leaks cause short circuits that might trigger fires or damage electrical and electronic appliances, such as computers and television sets. In addition, water can damage the house's structure, such as the flooring and siding. Not only that, but water leaks can also damage your house's contents and furnishings, including your clothes and carpets.

Factors Determining Water Damage Severity

The gravity of water damage depends on three main factors. The first is the volume of water, the second is the duration of exposure, and the third is the nature of your home's structure and contents. A water leak detector can help you with the first three factors and mitigate water damage to your house.

For example, the leak detector will alert you immediately after the water pipe bursts. That way, you can execute the necessary repairs and prevent further leaks. The prompt notification also allows you to air conduct water remediation as soon as possible, for example, by airing your house and drying up the floor. You might not even know about a leak, especially without a detector.

Why Insurance Companies Care

According to some estimates, water damages cause the insurance industry billions of dollars yearly. Some of the damages occur due to water from outside the house, while others occur due to water leaks inside the house. Water leak detectors help reduce the cost of water damage and save insurance companies some money.

Some insurance companies go out of their way to encourage homeowners to install water leak detectors. For example, some companies may reward you with premium discounts if you install leak detectors. Others may reimburse you for some of the installation costs.

Hopefully, you have a water leak detector to protect your home from water damage. However, you still need a home insurance policy to protect your home since few things in life have a hundred percent efficiency. Moreover, home insurance will protect your home from losses other than water damage.