P ROTECTING Y OUR H OME F ROM

W ATER D AMAGE

W ATER L OSS M ITIGATION D EVICES

W ATER DAMAGE can occur almost anywhere in your

home. Frozen water lines as well as water-bearing

appliances and fixtures, such as refrigerators with

icemakers, dishwashers, washing machines, toilets and

water heaters, are common sources of leaks. The

increasing number of these sources in today’s homes is

causing an increasing trend in water damage.

Unfortunately, slow leaks from these appliances and fixtures are often impossible to see until it is too
late. If a leak goes undetected, it can lead to rotting in the house frame and subfloors and can be a
precursor to a catastrophic leak that releases several hundred gallons of water.

Water loss mitigation devices may help prevent these problems, while also saving you money on your
homeowners insurance premium.

PASSIVE LEAK DETECTORS

Passive leak detectors are intended to alert you of a leak. They generally sound an alarm tone, and some
may also feature a flashing light. Passive detectors 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. These battery-
operated devices need to be checked regularly, and the batteries should be changed at least every year.
Most devices will “chirp” when the battery is low, similar to smoke detectors. Passive water leak
detectors generally cost between $8 and $45.

Passive detectors only help reduce water damage if someone hears the warning tone and acts to stop
the leak. They are especially useful in locations where it is easy for someone to hear the alarm such as
near refrigerators, dishwashers or toilets.

For more information, visit http://floodbusteronline.com/.

ACTIVE LEAK-DETECTION SYSTEMS

Active leak-detection systems usually generate some type of alarm but also perform a function that will
stop the water flow. They feature some means to determine that a leak is occurring and a shut-off valve.
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 active leak detection
system can either operate at an individual appliance, or it can operate and control a whole house.
INDIVIDUAL APPLIANCE SYSTEMS are designed to detect a leak from an appliance, such as a washing machine or water heater. When a
leak is detected, an alarm is activated, and the water supply to the appliance is automatically shut off. Depending on the type of
device, the homeowner may be able to install these systems without any special tools. However, in some cases, a qualified plumber
may be needed. Individual appliance systems range in cost from $70 to $150 (device cost only).

For more information about active leak-detection systems, visit http://www.smarthome.com/7115.html.

WHOLE HOUSE SYSTEMS shut off the main water service when a leak is detected. An automatic shut-off valve is installed on the main
water line between the water meter (if applicable) and the first branch piping. This valve is usually powered by electricity. Many
models feature a battery backup.

WATER LEAK SENSORS. Some whole house systems monitor several moisture sensors (also called water leak sensors). These sensors are
installed on the wall or floor below water-bearing appliances and fixtures. These sensors may be hard-wired, requiring that a wire
must be routed through the home between the sensor and the control valve, or wireless. Wireless systems utilize battery-operated
sensors that send a radio signal to the control valve if a leak is detected. The wireless systems are usually easier to install, especially
in existing homes. However, because each sensor has a small radio transmitter, these systems often cost more. The batteries in
wireless systems also must be regularly maintained and replaced.

For more information, visit http://www.watercop.com.

WATER FLOW SENSORS. A broken water line or a frozen pipe could result in water flowing into your home — often unnoticed for a long
period of time, especially if you are away from home. A flow sensor can be installed on your home’s main water line. The sensor
is programmed to allow continuous water flow based on your water needs during a given time. If the flow of water exceeds this
programmed amount of time, a valve will close to stop the flow of water. These sensors can be programmed for varying times,
depending on whether you are occupying the residence or away from home for an extended period of time.

For more information, visit http://www.flologic.com.

Generally, whole house water-leak/flow-detection systems can be installed within one day and cost between $500 and $1,500,
depending on labor rates and the size of the system.

To learn about other water-flow detection and control products, visit

http://www.dakotaalert.com/waterbug.html
http://www.wateralert.com/
http://www.darwell.com/waterleakdet.html

For more ways to help protect your home against water damage, visit Chubb’s website at www.chubb.com/personal/watertips.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE PREMIUM CREDITS

In most states, Chubb offers premium credits for each of the following:

• A water leak detection system that monitors all appropriate areas and closes the master plumbing valve

• A water leak detection system that monitors all appropriate areas, closes the master plumbing valve and activates a central
station alarm

• A temperature monitoring system that activates a central station alarm and may avert a freeze loss and subsequent water damage

To learn more about Chubb’s homeowners insurance, contact your independent agent or broker.

Chubb refers to the insurers of the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies.

Chubb Group of Insurance Companies This information is advisory in nature. Neither Chubb nor its employees or agents shall be liable to any party for the use of any
P.O. Box 1615, Warren, NJ 07061-1615 information or statements made or contained in any evaluation, report or recommendation.

www.chubb.com/personal/watertips Form 02-01-0286 (Ed. 4/04)