Common Causes of Water Damage (and How to Prevent Them)

​​Water damage is one of the most common—and expensive—problems Tennessee homeowners face. At Innovative Home Services, we see it every week across Cumberland County, Putnam County, and the surrounding Middle and East Tennessee counties.

The frustrating part? Most water damage is preventable. In this article, we’ll walk through the most common causes, prevention tips, and when to call in a professional before damage and costs get out of hand.

Why Water Damage Is a Big Deal

Water doesn’t just make things wet. It can destroy building materials, encourage mold growth, and create serious insurance issues if not addressed promptly.

If water damage isn't handled quickly:

  • Carpet, drywall, and hardwood may need to be removed
  • Mold can start developing in 24–48 hours
  • Insurance may deny claims if the damage appears long-term

Fast action can save materials and reduce costs.

Common Causes of Residential Water Damage

Burst or Frozen Pipes

Cold snaps in Tennessee can catch homeowners off guard. Pipes in crawlspaces, garages, and exterior walls are especially vulnerable.

Prevention Tips:

  • Insulate exposed pipes
  • Keep your home heated during cold spells
  • Let faucets drip during extreme cold

Appliance Failures

Water heaters, washing machines, and refrigerators often fail without warning.

Prevention Tips:

  • Replace rubber supply lines with braided steel
  • Inspect appliances annually
  • Replace aging water heaters before they fail

HVAC & Condensate Line Backups

When A/C condensate lines clog, water can back up into ceilings or walls.

Prevention Tips:

  • Flush condensate lines regularly
  • Have annual HVAC inspections
  • Install a float switch or water alarm

Roof Leaks

Small roof issues can cause major interior damage over time.

Prevention Tips:

  • Inspect your roof after storms
  • Repair minor leaks immediately
  • Watch for ceiling stains and act quickly

Plumbing Supply Line Failures

Toilet and sink supply lines often fail unexpectedly.

Prevention Tips:

  • Replace old or worn supply lines
  • Check for corrosion or bulging
  • Turn off water before long trips

Sewer Backups & Toilet Overflows

These events can be both damaging and hazardous.

Prevention Tips:

  • Avoid flushing wipes or hygiene products
  • Schedule sewer line inspections
  • Install backflow prevention if needed

Crawlspace Moisture Intrusion

Hidden crawlspace moisture is a major issue in Tennessee homes.

Prevention Tips:

  • Ensure proper exterior drainage
  • Install vapor barriers or encapsulation
  • Use crawlspace dehumidifiers

Sump Pump Failures

When sump pumps fail during heavy rain or outages, flooding happens fast.

Prevention Tips:

  • Test your pump regularly
  • Install battery backups
  • Replace aging systems proactively

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Many prevention tasks are DIY-friendly, but when water damage occurs, calling a professional is essential. Here’s why:

  • Certified pros follow IICRC industry standards
  • Proper drying prevents hidden mold and structural issues
  • You get documentation for insurance if needed
  • Quick response helps save building materials

Incorrect drying methods often lead to bigger problems later on. Read our blog on benefits of hiring a licensed contractor!

Insurance Tip: Know the Cost First

Water damage is often covered by insurance, but with high deductibles, filing a claim may not be worth it. We recommend:

  • Getting a professional assessment before calling your insurer
  • Comparing the repair cost to your deductible
  • Avoiding claims when damage is manageable

Want more guidance? Read our blog on the cost of water damage and how insurance fits in.

Annual Home Inspections Help Prevent Water Damage

For about $100, Innovative Home Services offers annual inspections that include:

  • Reviewing plumbing, appliances, crawlspaces, and moisture risk areas
  • Identifying small issues before they escalate
  • Providing a clear list of items to monitor or repair

Preventing water damage is far cheaper than restoring it.

When to Call Innovative Home Services

  • If you have water damage: Call now for a fast, professional response. Acting quickly saves materials and reduces cost.
  • If you want peace of mind: Schedule an annual inspection to catch issues early.

Call or fill out a form today to request a free quote!