Preventing water damage – or responding quickly when leaks occur – can help minimize the cost and inconvenience of cleanup.  There are several systems on the market that notify you when a water loss has occurred. 

IBHS does not evaluate the performance of specific products, but here are some things to consider when deciding which product to choose:

• How does the system detect a leak?  Spot sensors, monitoring of the water meter, etc.
• What is the sensitivity of the sensors?  How much water is needed before the alarm is sounded?
• Is the sensors wireless or wired, battery operated or electrical? 
• If sensors are wireless, what is the range and is it acceptable for your use?
• If the sensors are battery operated, how are you notified when the battery is low? 
• If the sensors require electrical power, do you have an outlet in the location where you want the sensors to be?
• How easy is it to install the system?  Does it require a contractor or is it something you can do yourself?
• How are you notified of a water loss?  Is an alarm sounded?  What happens if you are away from your home?  Will the alarm notify you via cell, pager, e-mail, etc?
• Does the alarm system shut the water off or does it simply notify you if there is a loss?  This becomes important if you are away from your home when the loss occurs.
• If the alarm does shut the water off, does it shut the water off at the source of the loss or does it shut the water off at the water main. 
• If water is shut off at the water main only, there is still a lot of water in the pipes that can contribute to a loss, especially if you are not home when the loss occurs. 

For more information on water damage prevention and cleanup, click here.