Five Signs You May Have Hidden Property Damage (2024)

Five common signs of water damage:

If you’ve noticed any of these telltale signs, further investigation is warranted!

discolored or peeling paint

Moisture is the leading cause of discolored or peeling paint. In rooms with high humidity or slow leaks, it is very common for the walls to start showing tiny flaws. If the cause of the discoloration, cracking or peeling is unknown, it must be investigated and taken care of to prevent further issues such as structural damage or mold growth. Regardless of how mild or severe the damage is, it is important to look for the cause and solve the issue early. As moisture continues to spread throughout the wall, costly remediation will become necessary and cover a much larger area. Worse, long-term issues are considered maintenance issues, and any remediation services will likely not be covered by insurance. If you see discolored or peeling paint, call a professional like American Restoration Solutions for an assessment ASAP. With their experience and expertise, they can determine exactly where the source of the water damage originates and remediate the problem accordingly.

Dank or musty odors

If you notice a musty, unpleasant odor in your home, it is very likely that there is some form of hidden or long-term water damage. Issues like pinhole leaks or dripping pipes, leaky roofs, and foundation seepage can lead to hidden moisture build up, resulting in less than pleasant odors in your home or business that persist despite normal cleaning efforts. Lack of airflow and proper ventilation can trap moisture, creating the ideal conditions for microbial growth and colonies of mold to take over. Once mold is established, the fungus releases spores into the air that can spread throughout your home or business. Don’t wait for odors to go away on their own. If you smell something, say something!

sagging ceilings or floors

It is crucial to address the issue of sagging ceilings or floors promptly to ensure that the structural integrity of your home is not compromised. Hidden damage from shifting, settling, or rot caused by insects or water damage are the primary causes of sagging ceilings or floors. When a structure framing member is saturated by water over time, the wood will weaken, rot and decay. An increase in moisture can also often lead to the introduction of pests. Termites and carpenter ants thrive and eat away at saturated wood which can damage structural beams and lead to sagging ceilings or floors. Hiring a professional to assess the situation and find/fix the damage as well as the cause of the damage as soon as possible will minimize additional long-term damage and expenses.

unexplained water stains

There are several reasons why you may find unexplained water stains on the interior or exterior of your home or business. Roof leaks due to cracked, missing or worn-out shingles can allow water to seep in through areas of your home you would likely never imagine, as water can travel across framing before dripping on a surface below. Clogged or incorrectly pitched gutters can cause an overflow of water, leading to stains on the exterior and interior damage if the backed-up water gets behind the fascia board. As buildings age, cracks in the foundation from settling are very common, allowing water to enter the basement. Worn out chimney caps and flues may also permit water into your basement, creating rust-colored stains on the floor. Plumbing leaks and appliance malfunctions are also very typical, leading to corrosion, rust, and unexplained stains.

unusual noises

Structural problems or appliance issues can sometimes be audible. Pay attention and be vigilant if you notice creaking, groaning, popping or banging, as it may be indicative of an impending failure or hidden damage.

If you notice any of the signs of hidden property damage, call the professionals for inspection and mitigation. Now that the common indicators have been highlighted, the next step is knowing how to prevent further damage.

how to prevent property damage:

Schedule regular inspections

Identifying potential hazards can prevent accidents and further damage, ensuring your safety and the longevity of your home. If mitigation is required, contact American Restoration Solutions at 833-4MITIGATION for your full-service restoration needs. One Call, Complete Recovery.

maintain your roof

Professionals recommend conducting inspections every 2-5 years or if you suspect damage after severe weather. Scheduling routine inspections for your home is the best way to guarantee longevity and strength over time.

check for plumbing leaks

Leaks are often found under sinks, around toilets, in the basement or crawl space, and behind walls. Look for water stains, rust, and leaky faucets and keep an ear out for unusual noises which can be an indication of a pipe leak or blockage.

inspect electrical wiring

Electrical work should be conducted by a licensed electrician, however, if you must check something on your own, always be sure to shut off the power at the breaker panel. Do not overload circuits by having too many devices plugged into one outlet and never keep electrical appliances near water. Outdoor electrical wiring should always be weather-resistant and regularly inspected, especially after storms.

address pest infestations

Identify the pest you’re dealing with, seal probable entry points, and reduce moisture caused by leaks, improper ventilation, or flooding. In some cases, pests can be taken care of with basic repellents. In other cases, professional help might be necessary to properly remediate the infestation.

improve ventilation

Opening windows and doors in your home can improve the air quality and decrease the possibility of excessive moisture. Dehumidifiers and exhaust fans that are vented to the exterior can help remove existing moisture. You also may consider installing a whole-house ventilation system to prevent moisture levels from rising any further.

seal cracks and gaps

Check for any cracks or gaps near windows, doors and pipes and treat them accordingly with the proper sealant. Depending on the severity of the cracks, you may need to call a professional. Having a sturdy and smooth base with no cracks and gaps will prevent continuous deterioration.

install a sump pump

Designed to remove excess water and prevent flooding in your basement, installing a sump pump is a great way to keep your home safe and dry. The effects of flooding can be devastating, but having a sump pump installed can help protect your belongings in case of severe storms and provide you peace of mind.

At American Restoration Solutions, we are more than happy to help mitigate your property damage.

Call 833-4MITIGATION for your full-service restoration needs. One Call, Complete Recovery.

recently discovered hidden property damage? Tell us, we can help.

Five Signs You May Have Hidden Property Damage (2024)

FAQs

What are the symptoms of a bad house? ›

Little things, big problems: warning signs of structural damage in your home
  • Balky doors.
  • Sloping floors.
  • Ceiling stains.
  • Window cracks.
  • Bulging washing machine hose.
  • Bubbling or chipping paint.
  • Slow or noisy water flow.
Jun 22, 2022

How do I know if I have structural damage? ›

Look for visible cracks in walls, check doors and windows for ease of operation, and pay attention to the evenness of floors and ceilings. It's also a good idea to inspect the exterior of your home for signs of damage, such as cracks in the foundation or brickwork, as well as any visible bowing or leaning walls.

What are the most common types of property damage? ›

Property damage can result from a variety of events like water damage, wind and hail damage, fire and smoke damage and theft. Insurance may cover damages but coverage excludes certain conditions like earthquakes or floods.

How do I know if my house is unstable? ›

A bulging floor, bowing walls or doors or windows that no longer sit level in their frames can also point to structural issues with your home. Bulges and bows and bad fits of this type can be caused by structural instability or uneven settling, mainly.

How do I know if my house is toxic? ›

If you suspect your asthma worsens or is more severe than usual, contact your doctor or medical professional.
  1. Bad Smells In The Home. When there's a bad smell in the home, you can tell. ...
  2. Peeling Wallpaper. ...
  3. Spots On The Wall. ...
  4. Bad Allergies Won't Go Away. ...
  5. Visible Mold Growth. ...
  6. Past Water Damage.

How do I know if the air in my house is making me sick? ›

The “immediate” symptoms of poor indoor air quality can often resemble a cold or allergies. You can feel fatigue or dizziness and may frequently get headaches and experience eye, nose, or throat irritation.

How to tell if a house is shifting? ›

Signs Your House Is Shifting And Experiencing Differential Settlement
  1. Doors and windows are sticking and/or don't close properly. ...
  2. Walls that are pulling away from ceilings and floors. ...
  3. Uneven floors. ...
  4. Cracked walls. ...
  5. Bowed walls. ...
  6. Cracked floors. ...
  7. Torn wallpaper. ...
  8. Wall rotation.

Does homeowners insurance cover structural damage? ›

Standard homeowners insurance policies usually cover structural damage on your property. This includes your foundation, ceiling, flooring, roof and more. Your policy protects these structures under dwelling coverage in the event of unexpected damage.

What is a major structural defect in a house? ›

Structural defects are issues that affect the integrity of a home. They are not merely cosmetic or surface-level problems. Instead, serious issues can make a home unsafe or unlivable. Structural defects can include problems with the home's foundation, walls, roof, or other critical structural components.

What is the number one cause of property damage to homes? ›

According to the Insurance Information Institute, the primary losses on homeowners insurance in 2019 were due to environmental damage from wind and rain, water damage and freezing, and fire and lightning.

What is most likely to cause damage to a house? ›

Wind and hail are one of the leading causes of property damage and it's easy to see why. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe storms all pack powerful winds and can rip the siding off your house, cause large trees to fall on your roof, and break windows.

What is typically the most common damage claim? ›

1. Wind & hail (40.7%) This category encompasses destruction caused by hurricanes, tornadoes, hail, and the wind associated with thunderstorms, so it's no wonder it comes in first for frequency.

What is evidence of structural damage? ›

Visible cracks: Look for large cracks in the foundation or load-bearing walls. Small hairline cracks might be cosmetic, but larger, widening cracks indicate deeper issues. Doors and windows that stick: If doors or windows begin to jam or fail to close correctly, it could be due to the shifting of the building's frame.

How do you tell if a house is worth fixing up? ›

If the inspection reveals only superficial repairs are needed — things like replacing broken doors/windows, repainting chipped walls, or adding some new shingles, then you've likely found a good investment. If the issues are deeper (think foundation, electrical, plumbing, etc.), then you might want to think twice.

What are the symptoms of bad air quality in a house? ›

Occupants of homes with poor indoor air quality may complain of symptoms such as headache, eye irritation, fatigue, dry throat, sinus congestion, dizziness, and nausea. Because many illnesses can cause these symptoms, diagnosing sick building syndrome is difficult.

Can something in my house be making me sick? ›

Is your house making you sick? Don't be surprised if the answer is yes. Toxins, pesticides, gases, mites, and molds are everywhere, and the more you're exposed to them, the greater your risk for developing the health problems they can cause.

What things are big red flags in a home inspection? ›

When shopping for a new home, look for these common findings that appear in home inspection reports and learn how to avoid repairs that can cost you.
  • Roof Issues. ...
  • Foundation Problems. ...
  • Signs of Mold or Mildew. ...
  • Termites and Other Pests. ...
  • Water Stains or Damage. ...
  • Other Issues.
Jan 31, 2024

Are there signs before a house collapse? ›

Some warning signs of structural damage in your home include curving interior walls, horizontal cracks in the foundation, and sagging floors or roofs. Calling in a structural engineer to take a look as soon as you notice these signs can save you from a bigger problem later on.

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