If you face water leaking in your rental home, it is essential to stay calm and take immediate steps. Prompt action can greatly aid in effectively resolving the problem. Here’s what to do in case of a leak in your rental property.
Shut off the main water supply
If you notice water coming from an unexpected place, your first step is to shut it off. If the leak is from a faucet or appliance, you can often stop 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 so, locate your main water shut-off valve. It might be in the basement, utility room, or outside the home. Then, use a wrench and pliers to turn the valve until the water stops.
Minimize the spread of water
Once the water is turned off, the 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 possible. Then, open the windows and turn on a few fans to dry the carpet quickly. Allowing a wet carpet to sit 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 needs to know what happened and what actions you’ve taken to fix the issue. Water leaks must be addressed promptly to prevent serious damage.
If you allow the problem to sit too long, you may be held liable for the damages. By calling your landlord, you can coordinate to get the leak repaired and address any other damage in the home. Remember, prompt action can prevent serious damage and avoid 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 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 mishaps.
Regular maintenance is crucial for 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. A proactive approach can have a significant impact.
Interested in trading your current Ojai rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Limitless can help! Visit our website to see our listings or give us a call at 805-702-7800.
Originally Published on April 2, 2021
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