If you face water leaking in your rental home, it is essential to stay calm and take immediate steps. Swift action can significantly help resolve the issue effectively. 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 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 might be able to 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 this, find your water main shut-off valve. This might be in the basement, utility room, or outside the house. 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 delay addressing the problem, you could be held responsible for the damages. By contacting your landlord, you can collaborate to arrange repairs and address any additional damage in the home. Remember, your swift 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 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. Stay vigilant with maintenance concerns and let your landlord know if you see signs of a developing issue. By repairing things before the pipes burst, you can do a lot to help prevent water leaks in your rental home. A proactive approach can have a significant impact.
Would you like to trade your current St Charles rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Three Bridges can assist! Visit our website to see our listings or give us a call at 636-542-8852.
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