The most costly damage I've seen in homes has come from plumbing leaks, sump overflows and water heaters bursting. It is good to check your sump pump's function regularly and replace your water heater no less than every 15 years. Yet, there's nothing like being there when the problem happens. This device lets you "be there" whether you're there or not! Click on image for link.
This is a battery back-up system. It has its own pump. If the power goes off, which often is caused by hefty rain storms, this will empty your sump until the battery wears out. Click on image for link.