If you experience the unfortunate situation of water leaking in your rental home, staying calm and acting promptly is key. Swift action can significantly help resolve the issue effectively. Here is a guide on what to do if a leak occurs in your rental property.
Shut off the main water supply
If you detect water coming from somewhere it shouldn’t, your first action is to shut it off. If the leak is from a faucet or appliance, you might be able to stop the water by turning the handle or powering it off.
If the leak is more serious, however, you’ll need to shut off the main water supply to the house. To do so, locate your main water shut-off valve. It may be located in the basement, utility room, or outside the home. Then, with a wrench and pliers, turn the valve until the water stops flowing.
Minimize the spread of water
Once the water is 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 stop 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 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
Once the water flow is under control, it is crucial to call your landlord immediately. Your landlord needs to know what happened and what actions you’ve taken to fix the issue. Water leaks need to be dealt with immediately, or serious damage may result.
If you allow the problem to sit too long, you may be held liable for the damages. By contacting your landlord, you can collaborate to arrange repairs and address any additional damage in the home. Remember, your swift action can avert 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 know the cause of the leak, you should take measures to prevent it from reoccurring. If you can, protect your drains and pipes from extreme temperatures, clogs, and other common issues.
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. Fixing things before the pipes burst can greatly help prevent water leaks in your rental home. Being proactive can make a significant difference.
Would you like to trade your current Mt. Vernon rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management DePenn can assist! Check out our listings on our website or call us at 866-820-9913.
Originally Published on April 2, 2021
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