Storm & Leak Risk Check for Murrieta

Southwest Riverside County has its own pattern. Winter rain storms drive water under tile and flat roofs, copper supply lines corrode and leak under the concrete slab, AC condensate lines clog and overflow ceilings in the summer heat, and storm runoff sheets off the Santa Rosa Plateau and the canyons onto low doors and garages. Aging water heaters and appliance hoses add to it.

Have a tile or flat roof inspected and reseal the flashing, clear gutters, valleys, and yard drains, flush the AC condensate line and add a float safety switch, and check that grading slopes water away from the house. Know where your main water shut-off is so you can stop a supply line or slab leak fast.

Warm spots on the floor, a water bill that jumps for no reason, the sound of running water when everything is off, or cracked and lifting tile can all point to a leak in the copper under your slab. Call at the first sign, because a slab leak wicks up into cabinets and framing the longer it runs.

If it is safe, shut the water off at the main, stay off the wet floor, keep clear of outlets and the electrical panel, and call the 24/7 line. If the water is a sewer or drain backup, do not touch it, it is Category 3 black water. The response team talks you through the rest while a crew is on the way.