The distribution of human populations close to water is the chief cause of floods, not geology or the weather. Floods from the sea can cause overtopping of flood-defenses like dikes and flattening of dunes or buffs. The worst floods usually occur when a river overflows its banks. Periodic floods occur naturally on many rivers, forming an area known as the flood plain.

The most likely appliances to flood your home and cause water damage are the water heater and washing machine, according to a study released February 15, 2005. Carried out by Safeco Insurance, the study demonstrates that one out of every 10 water-damage claims can be traced back to a fault in one of these two appliances, which are more likely than Mother Nature to cause damage in the home.

In the winter, ice dams and bursting pipes can ruin your carpets and cause water damage to ceilings and walls. An ice dam is a buildup of ice at the lower edge of a sloped roof, frequently at the gutter, blocking water from draining off your roof. As a precaution against roof leaks from an ice dam, you can install a water-repellent membrane under your roof covering.

You can begin restoration efforts on your own once you know how your home insurance company intends to handle your claim. Try opening windows to air out your home and start cleaning out any excess water that remains in your home by mopping or blotting water off surfaces. You will want to get as much water out of your home as quickly as possible before the items begin to mold or develop an unpleasant mildew odor.

You may need a professional water damage restoration company, which has skilled technicians, expert cleaners, biocides, extraction, drying and dehumidifying gear, and moisture gauging and monitoring tools. You can find a certified professional by calling the non-profit Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) toll free at (800) 835-4624 or by accessing www.certifiedcleaners.com.

Flood insurance covers damage from rising ground water, not things like a broken pipe or a leaky bathtub. Still, it's a good idea, since homeowners? insurance only covers damage from wind-driven rain ? generally, rain that comes into your home through the roof, windows, doors or holes in the walls. Make sure you have enough homeowners? insurance before buying additional flood coverage ? after all, a homeowners? policy covers a broader range of natural disasters and other causes of damage.