If you encounter water leakage in your rental home, it’s essential to stay calm and take immediate action. Quick action can significantly help in effectively resolving the issue. Here is a guide on what steps to take in case of a leak 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 can usually 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. This may be in the basement, utility room, or outside the home. Then, use a wrench and pliers to 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 contain 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 possible. Next, open the windows and turn on multiple fans to dry the carpet quickly. Leaving a wet carpet may cause 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 should be handled immediately, or serious damage can occur.
If you leave the problem unattended for too long, you might be held responsible for the damages. By calling your landlord, you can coordinate to get the leak repaired and address any other damage in the home. Remember, your swift action can avert serious damage and potential liability.
Prevent future water leaks
The last step in handling a water leak in your rental home is to practice effective prevention. Once you know the cause of the leak, you must take steps to prevent the same incident 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. Keep on top of maintenance concerns and inform your landlord when you see signs of a developing problem. By repairing things before the pipes burst, you can do a lot to help prevent water leaks in your rental home. Taking a proactive approach can make a significant difference.
Want to trade your current Tavares rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Alliances can assist! Visit our website to see our listings or give us a call at 407-378-7611.
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