If you find yourself dealing with water leakage in your rental home, staying calm and taking swift action is essential. Swift action can play a significant role in effectively resolving the issue. Here’s a guide on what actions to take if there is a leak in your rental property.
Shut off the main water supply
If you see or hear water where it shouldn’t be, your first move is to shut it off. If the leak is from a faucet or appliance, you can often shut off the water by turning the handle or switching it off.
However, if the leak is more severe, you’ll need to shut off the main water supply to the house. To do this, locate the main water shut-off valve. It may be located in the basement, utility room, or outside the home. Then, using a wrench and pliers, turn the valve until the water stops flowing.
Minimize the spread of water
After shutting off the water, your next step is to mop up any water that has leaked or pooled on the floor, under cabinets, or elsewhere. Use old towels and a mop to control the water’s spread and dry cabinets, table legs, and other wood.
If your carpet or rugs are soaked, use towels to absorb as much water as you can. Next, open the windows and turn on several fans to dry the carpet quickly. Allowing a wet carpet to sit may result in mold and permanently damage any furniture on top of it.
Report the issue to your landlord
After controlling the water flow, you should call your landlord right away. Your landlord needs to be informed about what happened and what steps you’ve taken to address the issue. Water leaks must be managed as soon as they occur, or serious damage could follow.
If you don’t address the issue promptly, you could be held accountable for the damages. By contacting your landlord, you can arrange to have the leak repaired and deal with any other damage in the home. Keep in mind, acting quickly can prevent serious damage and potential liability.
Prevent future water leaks
The final step in addressing a water leak in your rental home is practicing good prevention. Once you identify the cause of the leak, you need to take steps to prevent it from happening again. If possible, shield your drains and pipes from extreme temperatures, clogs, and other common problems.
Consistent maintenance is key to preventing water leaks. Stay vigilant with maintenance concerns and let your landlord know if you see signs of a developing issue. By addressing issues before the pipes burst, you can significantly help prevent water leaks in your rental home. Your proactive approach can greatly impact the outcome.
Would you like to exchange your current Chatham County rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Impact is here to assist! Visit our website to view our listings or give us a call at 919-439-8989.
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