5 ways to prevent water damage while you’re away
- Burst pipes or blocked gutters can create serious damage for a home when you’re away on holiday
- Turning off the water at the mains and cleaning gutters before you head off is a sensible precaution
- Check that your home and contents cover is up to date to be sure you’re fully protected against water damage
A survey conducted by QBE in August 2024 showed that 38% of Australians had experienced water damage in their homes, and of those, 7% had been away on holiday*.
To protect your home when you’re next going away, here are five simple tips.
1. Turn off water at the mains
Our survey found 25% of water damage was caused by a burst pipe*. So an important first step is to turn the water off at the main connection.
However, research shows 20% of people don’t know where to find their water mains and 19% don’t know how to turn it off*.
If you’re in a house, you can usually find the water mains at the front boundary next to the street. Or, if you’re in an apartment, check the bathroom, kitchen or laundry for a lone tap which should turn off the water to your apartment.
After you turn off the main water, turn on the kitchen tap to release any remaining pressure and check the water is no longer flowing.
2. Keep your gutters clear
Our survey showed that of the people who’d had water damage, 9% was caused by a clogged drain*.
Gutters and drains can get clogged by leaf debris, particularly over time. Then heavy rainfall can overflow and start seeping through walls. That’s why it’s a good idea to clear your gutters regularly, including before you go away.
Related article: Why maintenance is key when it comes to home insurance
3. Look for drainage issues
Before leaving, take a few minutes to check window seals are tight. That way water can’t seep in if a storm hits.
Check the drainage around your home too. Signs include showers and toilets that drain slowly, unpleasant odours and dirty water seeping up in the garden. This can indicate damaged pipes, and that could mean it’s time to call a plumber.
4. Check damage to flexi hoses
Flexi hoses are essentially a rubber inner tube wrapped in metal braiding. They are commonly used to supply water to taps in kitchens, bathrooms, and to toilets.
You’ll find flexi hoses under most sinks in kitchens and bathrooms. They may only last 5-10 years, so it’s important to check for any deterioration along with the expiry date.
Not only can flexi hoses deteriorate over time, pipes are also pressurised. Regular use prevents water pressure building, but if you head off for an extended period, pressure can mount up.
Related article: Flexi hoses - a simple way to avoid water damage
If a pipe bursts, thousands of litres of water can escape into your home. In fact, of the people we surveyed who’d had water damage, 25% was caused by a burst pipe.
5. Review your home and contents insurance
Water damage to your home or contents may be covered by QBE Home Insurance. If you’re in an apartment, or if you’re renting, QBE Contents Insurance covers contents for owner occupiers and tenants.
Remember to keep your cover up to date, to reflect renovations to your home or an increase in the value of your contents.
Insurance can’t replace sentimental items, so prevention is important too. Taking a few precautions to prevent water damage can help you enjoy a well-deserved break without worrying about returning to a waterlogged home.
Learn about QBE Home insurance
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* Polling study of 1,004 Australians, aged 18-65+, completed for QBE Insurance Australia in August 2024.
