10 Essential Water Damage Prevention Tips for Minnesota Homeowners

Water damage can happen in any season—frozen pipes in the winter, heavy rains in the spring, storm-driven leaks in the summer, and clogged gutters in the fall. Follow these ten actionable tips to protect your Minnesota home year-round.

1 · Inspect Plumbing Regularly

Look for corrosion, slow drips, and loose fittings under every sink and around your water heater. Replace worn-out supply lines with braided stainless-steel hoses.

2 · Protect Pipes from Freezing

Insulate exposed pipes, keep your heat at 55 °F or higher while away, and allow a faucet to trickle on sub-zero nights.

3 · Clean Gutters & Downspouts

Clear debris every spring and fall so melting snow and storms can flow freely away from your foundation.

4 · Test Your Sump Pump

Pour a bucket of water into the pit monthly. If it doesn’t switch on, troubleshoot or call a professional before the next heavy rain.

5 · Install Water-Leak Sensors

Smart detectors under sinks, behind washers, and next to your water heater send instant alerts to your phone the moment a leak starts.

6 · Maintain Your Roof

Replace missing shingles promptly and ensure attic insulation stops heat loss that can create destructive ice dams.

7 · Grade Soil Away from Foundation

The ground should slope 6 inches over the first 10 feet to divert runoff away from your basement walls.

8 · Know the Main Water Shut-Off

Time is critical when a pipe bursts—make sure every family member can locate and close the main valve in seconds.

9 · Keep Appliance Hoses Fresh

Replace washing-machine and dishwasher hoses at least every five years—earlier if you see bulges or cracks.

10 · Schedule an Annual Inspection

A licensed restoration expert can spot vulnerabilities you might miss and recommend tailored solutions.

Preventive maintenance costs a fraction of emergency restoration. Follow these tips and keep our 24/7 hotline handy in case water ever finds its way inside.