One of the more common problems that New Rochelle rental property owners have to watch out for is water damage. Even when it’s just a small quantity of water, it can still be destructive– getting into ceiling joists, walls, floors, and even weakening a building’s very foundation. Just a few inches of water on the floor can result in necessary repairs that go as high as tens of thousands of dollars. As a property owner, you really can’t avoid every single water-related emergency. But you can do things to help prevent water damage and the resulting repairs. Here are some tips to keep your New Rochelle investment property safe from preventable floods and leaks.
Prepare for Severe Weather
Water damage from severe weather incidents is a common problem. This is especially true in places where storms are a regular part of life. Water damage is a greater risk when there is strong wind and heavy rain. And if your property is in a flood-prone area, you’ll have to account for the chance of flash flooding as well.
To prevent water damage, it’s critical to equip your rental property for severe weather. For instance, every year be sure to inspect your roof for any cracks or gaps and make sure that you seal them shut. If you find any missing shingles, do replace them. Also, check that your flashing, gutters, and downspouts are all working well and properly installed. If you’re expecting some heavy rain, make sure that the drainage around your property’s foundation is helping water flow away from the walls. If your property is in a flood zone, you’ll need to take additional precautions. Think about having sandbags ready, or some sandbagging supplies on hand. These will do a lot in protecting your property. Even during unexpected weather events, preparation is critical. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your property safe and dry.
Clean the Gutters
Clogged gutters or incorrectly installed ones are another common cause of water damage. Your rental property’s gutter system is installed to direct the water’s flow away from the structure. The problem occurs when leaves, twigs, and other debris clog the gutters. In this case, the water will overflow down the side of the house instead. When this happens, so many problems can arise– leaking ceilings, wood rot, damaged drywall, and ruined flooring. And, if it’s left overflowing long enough, leaking gutters can even erode a cement foundation and also destroy your landscaping.
To stop this from occurring, simply clean your rental property’s gutters at least two times a year. Make sure to clear out any debris that you can find, and also check the gutter system for leaks and pooling water. When you get into the habit of cleaning and making small repairs on a gutter system, you’re going to prevent water damage from occurring. On top of that, you’ll be saving some money on repairs in the long run too.
Inspect Your Plumbing (and Water Heater)
The inside of your rental property isn’t exempt. Water damage can also happen because of plumbing issues. Leaking pipes, broken faucets, worn-out washing machine hoses, and old water heaters are possible water damage sources. Even something tiny like a slow or blocked drain could potentially cause serious water damage. And that damage may require expensive emergency repairs.
To stop water damage from happening inside your rental home, see to it that your entire plumbing system is inspected at least yearly. A professional plumber would be able to see developing problems during an inspection. Then you could have these fixed before they worsen. By fixing any plumbing problems while they are small, you are preventing water disasters from happening. You are, at the same time, saving yourself a good deal of money on repairs. It’s also important to keep track of your water heater’s condition– including its age. Make sure that it is serviced regularly and that you have it replaced before it fails. A failing water heater can potentially flood a basement or garage. This would mean you’d have to pay for the clean-up cost and repairs on top of the cost of replacing the unit. By replacing it before it fails, your cash flow will be more manageable and you’d avoid unnecessary expenses.
Preventing water damage could be a bit of a challenge. Good management skills and a lot of time are required. Instead of doing it all yourself, consider hiring one of our professional New Rochelle property managers to handle your preventive maintenance and inspections. To learn more, contact us online.
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