If you find yourself dealing with water leakage in your rental home, staying calm and taking swift action is essential. Swift action can significantly help resolve the issue effectively. Here is a guide on how to handle a leak in your rental property.
Shut off the main water supply
If you hear or see water where it shouldn’t be, the first thing to do is 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.
If the leak is more severe, however, you’ll need to turn off the main water supply to the house. To do this, find your water main shut-off valve. This may be in the basement, utility room, or outside the home. Next, use a wrench and pliers to turn the valve until the water stops flowing.
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 absorb as much water as you can. Then, open the windows and turn on several fans to dry the carpet quickly. Leaving a wet carpet can result in mold and permanently damage any furniture on top of it.
Report the issue to your landlord
Once you manage the water flow, it’s essential to 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 should be handled immediately, or serious damage can occur.
If you ignore the problem for too long, you could be held liable for the damages. By contacting your landlord, you can collaborate to arrange repairs and address any additional damage in the home. Keep in mind, your quick action can avert 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 determine what caused the leak, you must do your part to prevent it from happening again. If you can, protect your drains and pipes from extreme temperatures, clogs, and other common mishaps.
Consistent maintenance is key to preventing water leaks. Monitor maintenance concerns and alert your landlord whenever you notice signs of a developing problem. 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.
Would you like to trade your current Polk County rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Lakeside is here to help! Visit our website to view our listings or call us at 863-877-1078.
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