If you face the unfortunate event of water leaking in your rental home, staying calm and acting quickly is crucial. Swift action can play a significant role in effectively resolving the issue. Here is a guide on what to do if a leak occurs 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 usually stop the water by turning the handle or powering it off.
If the leak is more significant, however, you’ll need to shut off the main water supply to the house. To do so, find your main water shut-off valve. It could be in the basement, utility room, or outside the house. Then, with a wrench and pliers, turn the valve until the water stops flowing.
Minimize the spread of water
After turning 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 limit 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. Then, open the windows and turn on a few fans to dry the carpet quickly. Letting a wet carpet sit can cause 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 know what occurred and how you’ve addressed the issue. Water leaks need to be dealt with immediately, or serious damage may result.
If you don’t address the issue promptly, you could be held accountable for the damages. By calling your landlord, you can work together to organize repairs 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 identify the cause of the leak, you need to take steps to prevent it from happening again. If possible, safeguard your drains and pipes from extreme temperatures, clogs, and other common mishaps.
Routine maintenance is crucial for preventing water leaks. Stay on top of maintenance issues and notify your landlord if you see signs of a developing problem. By addressing issues before the pipes burst, you can significantly help prevent water leaks in your rental home. A proactive approach can make a significant difference.
Would you like to exchange your current Weeki Wachee rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Connection can assist! Check out our listings on our website or call us at 727-279-7779.
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