1. Keep gutters and downspouts clear. Clogged gutters cause water and ice melt to build up instead of flowing out. This can cause damage to the roof and lead to expensive repairs.
2. Monitor water pressure and plumbing issues. It’s important to catch leaks and other plumbing problems early — before they cause serious destruction. You may want to consider installing a water leak monitor for your pipes; many come with handy apps that alert you of even the smallest leak or potential problem.
3. Make sure your roof and chimney are maintained. Get your roof and chimney inspected annually. Sometimes, just repairing a small area of the roof can make all the difference in a storm.
4. Keep an eye out for mold and mildew. Monitor your ceilings for signs of mold and mildew, which typically indicates a leak or deeper moisture issue at work. If you see anything remotely suspicious, call a plumbing professional to look at it.