Flooding can be disastrous and stressful, so to avoid any issues, it is important to pinpoint the areas that are susceptible to flooding in our homes. By identifying these areas you can take the proper steps to avoid flooding, and act proactively rather than reactively.

Here are some common areas of flooding that you should be aware of in your home.

1. Roofs

Roofs are what keep our homes dry, so when they fail in torrential rain, this can lead to big problems and pricey repairs. Unlike a boiler flood, which you will notice almost immediately, roof leaks can cause extensive damage before you even realize they are there. One way to alleviate this problem is to employ professional waterproofing services to ensure your roof is in tip-top shape and won't let any water in. Roof leaks can be devastatingly expensive, so avoid them at all costs by making sure your roof is in the best possible shape.

2. Boilers/Hot Water Tanks

Hot water tanks are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to accidental flooding. If your boiler has a malfunction, this can lead to gallons of water being released into your home, causing damage and frustration. One way to avoid this issue is with regular maintenance, to ensure your systems maintain their integrity and don't lead to flooding. While you can never know if a disaster is about to strike, you can take the necessary precautions so that if something does end up flooding your basement appliance room, it will do as minimal damage as possible.

3. Dishwashers

Dishwashers are wonderful appliances that make our lives easier, but they can lead to water leaking and flooding if not properly used and maintained. Food backing up in the lines can lead to drainage issues, and water supply lines can lead to flooding in the kitchen if there is a rupture. Taking care of your dishwasher, cleaning it out once a month, and making sure that you don't put lots of food inside it will allow your drain lines to stay clear, and alleviate the chances of coming into a flooded kitchen.

4. Basement Drains

Older homes have drains on the basement floors that can lead to sewer backups and substantial flooding. While these drains make cleaning a breeze, they also increase the danger of flooding. Basements are always the biggest danger zone in any home. With pipes and lines running through them, as well as windows that allow in rainwater, if there is a flood (be it a natural flood or an appliance malfunction) basements will normally bear the brunt of the damage, as water flows into the lowest spots in your home.

Knowing that these areas can cause problems, it is important to maintain them properly in your current home or have them fully inspected before you buy a new home. The first step to prevention is awareness, so make sure that you are well aware of the danger zones in your home so you can take the proper preventative measure to reduce your risk of flooding and water damage.