If you face water leaking in your rental home, it is essential to stay calm and take immediate steps. Swift action can play a significant role in effectively resolving the issue. 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.
However, if the leak is more severe, you’ll need to shut off the main water supply to the house. To do so, find your main water shut-off valve. This might be in the basement, utility room, or outside the house. Next, use a wrench and pliers to 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 control 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. Next, 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
After you have the water flow under control, call your landlord immediately. Your landlord should be informed of what occurred and how you’ve dealt with the problem. Water leaks must be managed as soon as they occur, or serious damage could follow.
If you don’t address the issue promptly, you could be held accountable for the damages. By contacting your landlord, you can collaborate to arrange repairs and address any additional damage in the home. Remember, prompt action can prevent serious damage and avoid potential liability.
Prevent future water leaks
The final step in managing a water leak in your rental home is to implement good prevention practices. Once you identify what caused the leak, you should do your part to prevent it from happening again. If you can, protect your drains and pipes from extreme temperatures, clogs, and other common issues.
Routine maintenance is key to preventing water leaks. Keep up with maintenance concerns and inform your landlord whenever you see signs of a developing issue. Fixing things before the pipes burst can greatly help prevent water leaks in your rental home. A proactive approach can have a significant impact.
Would you like to exchange your current Largo rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Catalyst is here to help! Visit our website to view our listings or call us at 727-202-9077.
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