The holidays are all about family, celebration, and taking a well-earned break from the daily routine. But while you are relaxing away from home, your house may be facing risks you cannot see happening. For many homeowners in Greenville, Anderson, Belton, Easley, and the surrounding Upstate SC areas, water damage often strikes at the worst possible moment, especially when no one is home to catch it early.
Coming back from a trip should feel peaceful and comfortable, not stressful. That’s why knowing the hidden water damage risks that can happen during holiday travel is so important. A few simple steps can help prevent major damage while you are away.
Leaking Appliances That Run While You Are Gone
Dishwashers, washing machines, ice makers, and water heaters are some of the biggest sources of unexpected leaks. A tiny hose crack or loose connection can turn into several inches of water on the floor when no one is home to shut it off.
Prevention tip: Turn off water lines to appliances before leaving. If possible, avoid running dishwashers or washing machines the night before you travel.
Frozen Pipes in Cold Weather
If temperatures drop while you are away, pipes in attics, crawlspaces, basements, and exterior walls can freeze and burst. A burst pipe can release hundreds of gallons of water in a short amount of time.
Prevention tip: Keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees, open cabinet doors near plumbing, and insulate vulnerable pipes. A small drip from faucets can help keep water moving.
Slow Leaks From Hidden Sources
Some leaks do not create an immediate flood. Instead, they drip quietly behind walls, under sinks, or inside crawlspaces. By the time you return home, the water may have spread and caused structural damage or mold.
Watch for these signs:
• Musty smell
• Soft or warped flooring
• New stains on ceilings or walls
• Damp areas along baseboards
Water Heater Failures While You Are Away
Aging or overloaded water heaters can malfunction during long periods with nobody watching. If the tank cracks or overflows, water can spread quickly through the flooring and walls.
Prevention tip: If your water heater is older or showing signs of wear, schedule an inspection before holiday travel.
Roof Leaks After Winter Storms
South Carolina weather can change quickly, and winter storms often hit while families are out of town. Loose shingles, heavy rain, or fallen branches can create roof leaks that drip into attics or living spaces unnoticed.
Prevention tip: Check your roof and gutters before leaving town and remove debris that could redirect water toward the home.
Clogged Gutters Causing Foundation Leaks
If gutters are clogged when winter rain hits, water spills over the edges and pools near your foundation. With enough pressure, that water can seep through basement walls or crawlspaces.
Prevention tip: Make gutter cleaning part of your pre-travel checklist, especially in wooded areas like Easley, Belton, and Anderson.
What to Do If You Return Home to Water Damage
If you walk into your home after a holiday trip and suspect water damage, do not panic. Premier Restoration is here to help homeowners across Greenville, Anderson, Belton, Easley, and the entire Upstate SC region.
Our team can:
• Remove standing water
• Perform structural drying
• Inspect for hidden moisture
• Stop further damage
• Complete repairs and full restoration
• Work directly with your insurance company
Water damage is stressful, especially after travel, but you do not have to face it alone.
Protect Your Home and Travel With Peace of Mind
Taking a few precautions now can help prevent expensive repairs later. If water damage does happen while you are away, fast action is key. Premier Restoration offers 24-hour emergency response and trusted service backed by more than 25 years of experience.
If you need help, call us anytime at 864.225.4800. We are here to restore your home and your peace of mind.