This Wired buying guide rounds up recommended smart water leak detectors for 2026, aimed at helping homeowners spot burst pipes, leaking toilets or faulty appliances before they cause serious damage. The guide highlights the financial stakes: water damage is a common and costly insurance claim, and catching leaks early can prevent destruction of belongings, mould growth and structural harm.

The article cites Insurance Information Institute figures showing roughly one in 60 insured homeowners files a water-damage or freezing-related claim each year, with average property damage costs around $15,000 (roughly £12,000). It then presents a selection of recommended devices from brands including Moen, Phyn and TP-Link, positioning smart leak detectors as an affordable way to mitigate this risk through early alerts.

– Wired's 2026 guide reviews smart water leak detectors from Moen, Phyn, TP-Link and others
– Around 1 in 60 insured US homes claims for water damage yearly, averaging $15,000 in costs
– Early detection devices help prevent mould, structural damage and destroyed belongings