What Is a Home Flood Detection System and Do I Need One?

Slow leaks in pipes hidden behind walls, inside cabinets, or coming from basement sump pumps can go undetected for weeks or even months without you realizing it. The types of damage flooding can cause, even if it is a slow leak, include drywall or floorboard rotting, mold buildup, electrical hazards, or structural issues. Investing in an early-warning home flood detection system can help you avoid hefty hassles and bills by alerting you to small problems before they become big ones.

What Is a Home Flood Detection System and How Does It Work?

Home flood detection systems, also known as leak detection systems, alert you to unexpected leaks, floods, or excessive moisture. An alert—an audible alarm and/or phone notification—occurs when a metal sensor from the detection device comes into contact with water. This could be dampness from a dripping, slow leak or the rush of water from a burst pipe. 

Some advanced home flood detection systems also come with a shutoff valve, which will turn off your water to prevent further damage. Others can detect issues with water flow rates or pressure, or even if the water is too cold, which can help prevent your pipes from freezing.

Why Use a Home Flood Detection System?

Discreet, often easy-to-install, and inexpensive home flood detection systems allow you to take action before a slow, hidden leak in your bathroom leads to costly repairs, spreads harmful mold, or wastes water, resulting in soaring utility bills.

These peace-of-mind systems are ideal if you are away from your home for extended periods, have an old home with dodgy pipework, live in a flood-prone area, or just worry about unexpected repair bills busting your household budget—even if you live in a flood-proof house, your home isn’t immune to pricey water damage.

Types of Home Flood Detection Systems

There is an increasing range of home flood detection systems, from budget beepers to those with sophisticated water shutoff capabilities. The one you should choose depends on your budget, home type, and the level of peace of mind you are looking for.

• Basic alarm detection: Small, simple sensor devices, often battery-operated, that you set up under or next to locations where leaks are likely to occur. They will emit a loud beep or other noise to alert you when they detect excess moisture. 

• Smart leak detection systems: The device sensors on these popular systems will trigger a push notification to a phone or email via Bluetooth or WiFi. Some can even be connected to a security system that alerts an outside agency. These devices are often compatible with smart home devices, such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home.

• Water shutoff system: If you have the budget, professionally installed whole-home protection systems with multiple sensors can connect directly to your home’s water supply. They have the ability to shut off the water should they detect a leak in any part of your water delivery system.

Where to Install a Home Flood Detection System

Install home flood detection system sensors in any areas that are common culprits for leaks or flooding. This could include next to the toilet, water-using appliances, water heater, or pipework, underneath a sink, beside a basement sump pump, or in your attic or garage.

How to Install a Home Flood Detection System

Installing home flood detection systems that rely on basic or smart-home sensors is easy. Simply follow the manufacturer's instructions and check the recommended proximity to leak-prone locations. You will also need to install the mobile app and set up an account for smart sensors.

For whole-house protection systems with water shutoff capabilities, the company may offer to install the system, or you could consider hiring a local plumber.