9 Warning Signs of Property Water Damage

Water damage is a common problem that many property owners in Heber City will likely encounter at some point. Whether it's due to a burst pipe, a leaking roof, a heavy storm, or poor drainage, the signs of water damage should never be ignored. Identifying these signs early can help prevent the problem from spreading, creating the need for even more costly repairs.

1. Water Stains

One of the most obvious signs of water damage is the presence of stains on walls, ceilings, or floors. Water stains often have a yellowish or brownish color, and they may indicate leaky pipes behind the walls.

2. Humidity and Dampness

If you notice condensation on windows, peeling wallpaper, or warped wooden furniture, excess moisture may be in your home or office space.

3. Musty Smells

It could be a sign of hidden water damage if you detect a lingering smell in certain areas of your home, especially in basements or crawl spaces. The smell is caused by the growth of mold and mildew, which thrive in moist environments.

4. Mold Growth

Speaking of mold, this is a big warning sign of serious water damage. It can appear as black or green patches on walls, ceilings, or other surfaces. Mold damage can impact porous hard and soft surfaces, posing serious health risks. A professional mold remediation company like ServiceMaster of Deseret should address mold growth promptly.

5. Dripping Sounds

If you hear the sound of dripping water or notice water droplets in certain areas of your property, it's an obvious sign of a water leak. Leaky pipes, faucets, or appliances can cause water damage if not dealt with promptly.

6. Paint Damage

Peeling, bubbling, or flaking paint are signs of moisture seeping into the walls. Paint damage often occurs near windows, doors, or areas with poor ventilation. Addressing the underlying water issue is essential to prevent further surface damage and potential structural issues.

7. Soft Walls

If you notice that your walls feel soft or spongy to the touch, it could indicate serious water damage. The reason is that moisture can weaken the structure of the walls, causing them to become soft. Left unrepaired, the wall could completely collapse.

8. Higher Utility Bills

A sudden increase in your water bills without an apparent reason is something to look into. Hidden leaks can lead to wasted water and higher utility costs month after month.

9. Respiratory Issues

Exposure to mold spores and mildew from water damage can trigger allergies, asthma attacks, and respiratory infections. If you or your family experience unexplained respiratory issues, it's important to consider the possibility of water damage in your space.

The Value of Quick Action

There are several reasons that property owners should act quickly to prevent or address suspect water damage. The possibility of preventing larger-scale repairs in the future is the most prominent reason, but other consequences may linger long-term.

Decreased Property Value

The damage water does to a residential or commercial property can negatively impact its value. People looking at buying a new home or office space are likely to be less than excited about a property where structural damage could become a full-scale repair job in the near future. Conversely, when issues have been addressed, real estate prospects may feel optimistic or confident that those issues won’t arise for a long time.

Potential Injury Liability

Superficially, business owners may have liability issues to deal with the presence of water damage. One prime example is a slip-and-fall incident where an employee or customer has an accident due to a wet spot on the floor. Similarly, what if employees with pre-existing respiratory problems, such as asthma, worsen because of unaddressed water damage due to poor indoor air quality? What if a previously healthy employee develops lung problems because of musty air?

If an employee’s lawyer can connect those conditions to unrepaired water damage, workman’s compensation may end up footing the bill. If it can be proven that the employer was aware of the damage and ignored it, a personal injury lawsuit could result. That’s a big risk to avoid a short-term water damage fix.

Get Water Damage Restoration Support from ServiceMaster of Deseret Today!

ServiceMaster of Deseret understands the urgency of repairing property damaged because of water-related issues. Our goal is to help provide peace of mind by employing innovative restoration techniques, walking you through the process, and restoring your property efficiently. That’s why we pride ourselves on thorough and professional work. Plus, we’re available 24/7 to help.