Yes, but a water heater can cause significant damage and be a severe hazard if not
properly maintained.
If you have a gas-powered unit and the burner doesn’t shut off, excess gas can build up in your home, and a single spark can damage or destroy the house.
Faulty gas heaters can also potentially release carbon monoxide into the home.
Leaks, if left unattended, can burst and
flood
your floor, damaging furniture, appliances, electronics, drywall and other building materials.