Reduce the risk of water damage to your vacant or unoccupied home

Before you leave your home vacant or unoccupied, follow some handy guidelines to reduce your risk of water damage:

Vacant or Unoccupied Home for Sale

• Check and keep of your floor drains clear of obstructions.
• Clean-out and adjust your eaves troughs and downspouts so that water is directed 4 to 6 feet away from your home.

• If you're planning to be away from your home for an extended period, arrange for a Home Watch service to check your property in case there is severe weather.
• Ensure there is proper grading around your home so surface water and snow melt flows away from your foundation.
• Install a sump pump or make sure the one you have is working properly; have it checked when you are away.
• Install back flow water valves or plugs in drains and other sewer connections (to prevent a sewer backup).
• Elevate the furnace, hot water heater and electrical panel in the basement or relocate them to a higher level if your basement is susceptible to flooding 

• Store important documents and irreplaceable personal items where they cannot be damaged by water.
• Do not finish areas, such as the basement, that may be prone to flooding.
• If you have a finished basement and it's susceptible to flooding, don't keep any expensive items there.
• Ensure all exterior penetrations (lights, water faucets, electrical outlets, vents etc ) are well sealed to prevent water from entering.
• Ensure all windows, doors and roofs are well sealed to prevent rain water from entering.
• If you're planning to be away from your home for an extended period, turn the water main off and drain the pipes. You could also drain the water heater.
• If you are away in the winter months, use RV plumbing anti-freeze in your traps and toilets (ensure to top them up regularly)

If you are in the Ottawa area, call Inspected by 42 Home Watch to watch your home while you are away. We are the professional choice for vacant and unoccupied homes in the Ottawa area.  Call Barry 613 799 3698  http://www.inspectedby42.com/ottawa-home-watch  Prices start at $25 + HST.

see also www.kanatahomewatch.com