By Marty O’Neill, Insurance Agent

Water damage can occur almost anywhere in your house.  Water-using appliances and fixtures, such as refrigerators with icemakers, dishwashers, washing machines, toilets and water heaters are common locations of leaks.

Unfortunately, slow leaks at these appliances and fixtures are often times impossible to see until it is too late.  If it goes undetected, a slow leak can lead to rotting house framing and subfloors, and can be a precursor to a catastrophic leak that can release several gallons of water per minute, causing extensive water damage.  A water leak detection system may help prevent these problems.

There are two types of water leak detection systems: passive and active.

Passive leak detection systems are intended to alert you of a leak. They generally sound an audible alarm tone and some may also feature a flashing light.  Passive systems are frequently battery-operated, stand-alone units. They are inexpensive and easy to install. Some simply sit on the floor while others may be wall mounted. A moisture sensor is located on the floor and activates the alarm when it becomes wet. Passive leak detection systems are especially useful in locations where it is easy for someone to hear the alarm such as near refrigerators, dishwashers, or toilets.

Active leak detection systems usually generate some type of alarm, but also perform a function that will stop the water flow.  They feature a shut-off valve and some means to determine that a leak is occurring.  Most devices use moisture sensors to detect a leak.  Other systems use a flow sensor and a timer to determine that something is leaking and the water needs to be turned off.

An individual appliance system, which costs $50 to $150, detects a leak from a specific appliance, such as a washing machine or water heater and shuts off the water supply to that appliance only.  You can often install these systems without the use of special tools.

A whole house system, which costs $500 to $1,500, sends an alarm when a leak is detected and automatically shuts off the main water service.  Some models can also be integrated with a local or central station security system.

Contact a local contractor, building official or hardware store for more information about water leak detection systems.        If you’d like more information about how you can prevent water losses in your home, please call or stop by my office

By Marty O’Neill, Ferndale Insurance Agent

With the popularity of ipods, digital camera, and the iphone, coverage questions are coming into play in the insurance industry. On August 20, 2007 the Detroit Free Press published this guide to your digital equipment:

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You have car insurance and homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. But what about your digital gear? Your homeowner’s or rental policy offers some protection. But is it enough? Ask your insurance agent.

What events are covered? Ask if an item is covered if you lose it. Also, ask if you’re covered if something is stolen outside the home. If you travel overseas, check that your gear is still covered outside the country.

What kind of coverage are you getting? Some people don’t think about the type of coverage they’re getting. Your policy may provide actual cash value of items. Other policies offer replacement value. Replacement value is the better option. You’ll receive the amount you would pay to buy a comparable item new.

What are the limits and deductible? Your policy will cap the amount you can claim for personal belongings. For example, your limit may be $25,000 in the event of a disaster.

Are digital downloads protected? Don’t expect your insurer to cover your personal data. However, some insurers are beginning to take digital downloads into consideration. The movies and music you buy may be covered. But you should ask about these items specifically. Also ask what kind of proof you need of the purchases.

Can I buy extra coverage? There are companies that insure digital gear specifically. But don’t shell out for this if your gear is already covered.

By KIM KOMANDO, Gannett News Service

Being alert at all times while driving is your best defense against any type of accident.