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Mercury Insurance Shares Simple Steps to Prevent Costly Water Damage at Home
Water damage remains one of the most frequent and costly home insurance claims and oftentimes have nothing to do with storms or flooding. Instead, they can start quietly—behind walls, under sinks, or in rarely checked supply lines—often during colder months when pipes and fittings are under added stress.
About this update from Mercury General Corporation
[{"type":"text","content":"Cold-Weather Pipe Failures Highlight One of the Most Common – and Preventable – Sources of Home Losses","length":102,"tagName":"p","attribs":{}},{"type":"text","content":"LOS ANGELES, Jan. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Water damage remains one of the most frequent and costly home insurance claims and oftentimes have nothing to do with storms or flooding. Instead, they can start quietly—behind walls, under sinks, or in rarely checked supply lines—often during colder months when pipes and fittings are under added stress.","length":352,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":""Most homeowners don't think about water damage until it's already soaking through the floor," said Adam Bakonis, Sr. Product Manager, State, Mercury Insurance. "But many of the most common losses are preventable with basic awareness and a few proactive steps, especially during changes in weather."","length":327,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"Three key areas homeowners should focus on to reduce water damage risk include:","length":79,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"Inspect supply lines regularlyWashing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, and bathroom fixtures rely on small supply hoses that can wear out over time. Cracks, corrosion, and loose fittings are common failure points. Replacing older rubber hoses with braided stainless-steel options can significantly reduce risk.","length":316,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"Know where your main shut-off valve is—and how to use itIn a water emergency, minutes matter. Knowing where the main water shut-off valve is located—and making sure everyone in the household knows how to turn it off—can prevent a minor leak from becoming a major loss.","length":269,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":"Use early-warning detection toolsWater leak sensors and smart shut-off devices can alert homeowners to leaks before damage occurs. These tools are especially useful in areas that are often out of sight, such as under sinks, behind appliances, or in basements.","length":260,"tagName":"p"},{"type":"text","content":""Water damage often isn't dramatic—it's silent and can be incredibly destructive," Bakonis added. "Taking time now to check supply lines, test shut-off valves and consider detection tools can save homeowners from expensive repairs and long d...