12 Ways Las Vegas Homeowners Can Prevent Water Damage
Water damage is one of the most expensive home insurance claims in Las Vegas — and also one of the most preventable. With a few hours of annual maintenance and the right precautions, Las Vegas homeowners can dramatically reduce their risk of a water damage emergency. Here are 12 proven prevention strategies.
Appliance Maintenance (Highest Risk Items)
Most Las Vegas water damage claims originate from appliance failures. These are your highest-priority prevention items:
- •1. Replace washing machine supply hoses every 5 years — use braided steel hoses, not rubber
- •2. Inspect the refrigerator water line (for ice makers) annually and replace if showing wear
- •3. Keep your water heater well-maintained — anode rod replacement every 3–5 years extends life
- •4. Check dishwasher door seals and drain hoses annually
- •5. Clean the lint filter on your clothes dryer (overheating can cause fire, not water — but fires often trigger firefighting water damage)
Plumbing Maintenance
Las Vegas's hard water is particularly hard on plumbing systems, accelerating corrosion and scale buildup:
- •6. Have a plumber inspect your supply lines and fixtures every 5 years
- •7. Know where your main water shutoff valve is — and test it annually to ensure it operates
- •8. Insulate pipes in your garage and attic (Las Vegas winter nights can freeze pipes)
- •9. Address any dripping faucets promptly — they indicate pressure issues
- •10. Consider a whole-home water softener to reduce scale buildup in pipes
Monsoon Season Preparation (June–September)
Las Vegas monsoon season (July–September) creates unique flood and water damage risks:
- •11. Clean gutters and downspouts before June — debris causes water backup and roof damage
- •12. Inspect your roof annually and after any major storms — replace damaged shingles immediately
- •Ensure window wells have proper drainage and covers
- •Check that drainage around your foundation slopes away from the house
- •Consider sandbags for low-lying areas of your property if you live in a flood-prone neighborhood
Need Immediate Help? Call M&M Restoration
Las Vegas's #1 rated restoration company. In-house public adjuster. 60-minute response. 24/7 emergency.
GC License B0093581 · Public Adjuster License 4067945 · IICRC #70207886
Smart Home Water Protection
Technology can detect water damage before it becomes a major problem:
- •Install water leak sensors near appliances, water heaters, and under sinks
- •Consider a whole-home water shutoff device (leak detectors that automatically shut off the main line)
- •Smart home systems can send alerts to your phone when leaks are detected
- •Water leak sensors cost $20–$50 each — far less than a deductible