9 Warning Signs of Water Damage & Its Impact

Do you know what the telltale signs of water damage are? Being aware of the warning signs, and acting quickly when you see them, may be able to save a lot of money by preventing more serious damage. The good news is ServiceMaster by Fuson - Traverse City is here to help you learn more about these nine indicators.

Understanding Water Damage Warning Signs

Water damage is a common problem that may likely encounter, especially during harsh Traverse City winters. 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 on can help prevent the problem from spreading and creating the need for even more costly repairs. Property owners should be alert to these nine signs of water damage:

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, it's possible there is excess moisture in your home or office space.
3. Musty Smell: If you detect a lingering smell in certain areas of your home, especially in basements or crawl spaces, it could be a sign of hidden water damage. The smell is caused by the growth of mold and mildew, which thrive in moist environments.
4. Mold: 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 not only damages materials but also poses serious health risks. It should be addressed promptly.
5. Dripping: If you hear the sound of dripping water or notice water droplets in certain areas of your home, it's an obvious sign of a water leak. Leaky pipes, faucets, or appliances can cause water damage if not dealt with in a timely manner.
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 paint 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 runs the risk of complete 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.
9. Respiratory Issues: Exposure to mold spores and mildew that spring from water damage can trigger allergies, asthma attacks, and respiratory infections. If you or your family members experience unexplained respiratory issues, it's important to consider the possibility of water damage in your home.

Why Quick Action Following Water Damage is Vital

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

Impacts Property Value

The damage water does to a property can have a negative impact on its value. Those interested in buying a new home are likely to be less than excited about a property where structural damage looks ready to become a full-scale repair job in the near future. On the flip side, when issues have been addressed, real estate prospects may feel a sense of optimism, confident that those same issues won’t arise for a long time.

Decreases Repair Costs

No one can predict how the market will react to damage repair work, but it’s not unreasonable to think that the costs of modest repair now will be significantly less than the change in property value if left unaddressed.

Creates Potential Liability

Business owners have liability issues to deal with. A slip-and-fall, where an employee or customer has an accident due to a wet spot on the floor, is one prime example. Or, we could take a longer-term view. What if there are employees with pre-existing respiratory problems, such as asthma, and those conditions worsen due to mold caused by water damage?

If an employee’s lawyer can connect those conditions to unrepaired water damage, workman’s compensation may end up footing the bill.

ServiceMaster by Fuson - Traverse City understands the urgency of repairing property damaged because of excessive water. Our goal is to give property owners peace of mind. That’s why we pride ourselves on work that is thorough and professional. To address issues immediately, we stay available 24/7.