Did You Know?
Water damage claims are the second most frequently filed homeowners insurance claim, and they can be some of the most expensive.
Installing a smart leak detection device can reduce water leak frequency by up to 96%, protecting your home from extensive damage and giving you peace of mind.
What Is a Water Detection System and How Does It Work?
A water detection system is a smart home device that helps protect your home from leaks and flooding. Small sensors are placed near potential trouble spots, like under sinks, near water heaters, or behind appliances.
When the sensors detect water, they can alert you immediately through your phone or other connected devices. Some advanced systems go a step further and automatically shut off your main water supply or monitor water flow to catch leaks early.
By detecting leaks before they become major problems, these systems can help prevent costly water damage, reduce the risk of mold, and even save you money on your homeowners insurance.
Home Insurance Discounts for Smart Water Leak Protection
Tower Hill recognizes homeowners who take steps to prevent water damage. Depending on your system, you could qualify for a credit on your insurance policy:
| System Type | How It Works | Credit |
| Sensor-based system that alerts you via mobile device and internet connection | You receive a notification if a leak is detected | 5% |
| Sensor-based system that automatically shuts off your main water supply | Stops water from flowing if a leak occurs | 10% |
| Sensor-based system that monitors water flow and automatically shuts off your main supply | Detects abnormal water flow and stops it immediately | 15% |
Disclaimer: The Smart Home Water Protection Credit applies to your non-hurricane base premium only. Actual savings may vary depending on your policy and coverage.
The more proactive your system, the more you could save on home insurance, and the more protected your home will be.
Real-World Example: A Costly Leak That Could Have Been Prevented
Here’s an example of how a water sensor could have saved one of our Exchange members major inconvenience and out-of-pocket expenses:
A refrigerator filter malfunctioned while the residents were away, causing water to leak into the kitchen and then five other rooms. Repairs and restoration totaled $25,000.
If a water sensor had been installed, the leak could have been detected quickly, alerting the homeowner before extensive damage occurred. Instead of getting a $200 annual insurance credit, the homeowner had to pay their $2,500 deductible and deal with the stress and disruption of repairs.
Why Water Damage Prevention Matters
Water damage isn’t just messy, it can get worse the longer it goes untreated:
- Within Minutes: Carpets, flooring, and furniture begin absorbing water. Personal items like photos and documents can be destroyed.
- Within Hours: Humidity causes odors and weakens cabinetry and furniture. Clean water can turn into hazardous “black water” within 48 hours.
- Within Days: Mold and mildew begin to grow, floors and walls may need replacement, and structural wood can start swelling and splitting.
- Within Weeks: The home may become hazardous and uninhabitable, requiring extensive restoration.
- Within Months: Damage may exceed the value of the home, and insurance claims could be denied due to neglect.
Water Damage by the Numbers
- Around 14,000 people in the U.S. are affected by water damage daily.
- About 1 in 60 insured homes makes a claim for water or freezing damage each year.
- Americans waste roughly 1 trillion gallons of water yearly due to leaky pipes, faucets, sprinkler systems, and more.
Take Action: Protect Your Home and Save
Water damage can strike anytime, but the right smart water protection system can stop leaks before they turn into costly disasters. These devices not only give you peace of mind, they can help you save on your home insurance. Contact your local insurance agent today to see if you qualify for the Smart Home Water Protection Credit.