If you find yourself dealing with water leakage in your rental home, staying calm and taking swift action is essential. Prompt action can greatly aid in effectively resolving the problem. Here’s what to do in case of a leak in your rental property.
Shut off the main water supply
If you observe water coming from an unintended place, your first step is to shut it off. If the leak is from a faucet or appliance, you can often stop the water by turning the handle or switching it off.
If the leak is more severe, however, you’ll need to turn off the main water supply to the house. To do this, locate the main water shut-off valve. It might be in the basement, utility room, or outside the home. Then, use a wrench and pliers to turn the valve until the water stops.
Minimize the spread of water
Once the water is shut off, 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 reduce the water’s spread and dry cabinets, table legs, and other wood.
If your carpet or rugs are soaked, use towels to blot up as much water as possible. Then, 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 should be informed of what happened and what you’ve done to fix the problem. Water leaks need immediate attention to prevent serious damage.
If you allow the problem to sit too long, you may be held liable for the damages. By contacting your landlord, you can jointly arrange for the leak to be repaired and address any other damage in the home. Remember, acting promptly can prevent serious damage and potential liability.
Prevent future water leaks
The last step in dealing with a water leak in your rental home is to focus on prevention. Once you determine what caused the leak, you must do your part to prevent it from happening again. If possible, shield your drains and pipes from extreme temperatures, clogs, and other common problems.
Regular maintenance is essential to preventing water leaks. Stay vigilant with maintenance concerns and let your landlord know if you see signs of a developing issue. By fixing issues before the pipes burst, you can do much to prevent water leaks in your rental home. Your proactive approach can greatly impact the outcome.
Interested in trading your current Monroe rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Value can help! Visit our website to view our listings or give us a call at 704-285-2228.
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