Home Water Damage Prevention Checklist — 15 Things Gwinnett County Homeowners Should Check

Plumbing & Supply Lines (Check These First)

Replace washing machine hoses every 3 to 5 years — rubber hoses are the leading cause of appliance-related flooding. Inspect refrigerator ice maker supply lines annually. Know where your main water shutoff is and test it once a year to ensure it operates smoothly. Check under sinks for any staining, soft cabinet floors, or odor that could indicate slow drips.

Water Heater Maintenance

Inspect your water heater annually for corrosion, rust, or mineral buildup around connections. Water heaters typically have a 10 to 15 year lifespan — if yours is approaching this age, a proactive replacement is far less expensive than an emergency flood. Ensure the pressure relief valve is functioning and the drip pan beneath the unit is intact and draining properly.

Roof and Gutters

Clean gutters at least twice a year — Gwinnett County's tree canopy generates significant debris. Ensure downspouts extend at least 6 feet from the foundation. Have your roof inspected after significant hail or wind events. Check attic insulation for moisture or staining that could indicate a slow roof leak you haven't seen inside the house yet.

Basement and Foundation

Inspect basement walls and floor for cracks, efflorescence, or staining at least once a year. Verify that the grade around your foundation slopes away from the house — soil settlement over time can reverse proper drainage. Test your sump pump quarterly and consider a battery backup for power outage events. Check window wells to ensure they drain freely.

HVAC and Appliances

Have your HVAC condensate drain lines inspected and cleared annually — a clogged condensate line is a common cause of ceiling and wall water damage in Georgia homes. Check the drain pan under your indoor air handler for water accumulation. Inspect dishwasher door seals and drain connections annually. Run your washing machine on a regular schedule and inspect connections after moving the machine for any reason.

What to Do If You Find a Problem

Don't ignore small signs. A water stain that has been there for months represents months of moisture that may have spread further than the visible discoloration. A slow drip under a sink that has left a soft spot in the cabinet floor has likely been wetting the subfloor for a period of time. Call us for a free moisture inspection if you find anything that concerns you — finding it early is always less expensive than finding it late.