If you face the unfortunate event of water leaking in your rental home, staying calm and acting quickly is crucial. Swift action can significantly help resolve the issue effectively. Here is a guide on what to do if a leak occurs in your rental property.
Shut off the main water supply
If you observe water coming from an unintended place, your first step is to 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 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, 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 reduce 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 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 you get the water flow under control, call your landlord immediately. Your landlord should be informed of what happened and what you’ve done to fix the problem. Water leaks need immediate attention to prevent serious damage.
If you delay addressing the problem, you could be held responsible for the damages. By contacting your landlord, you can jointly arrange for the leak to be repaired and address any other damage in the home. Keep in mind, your quick action can avert serious damage and potential liability.
Prevent future water leaks
The final step in handling a water leak in your rental home is to practice good 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 key to preventing water leaks. Keep up with maintenance concerns and inform your landlord whenever 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 make a significant difference.
Would you like to trade your current Weatherford rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Trailhead can assist! Check out our listings on our website or call us at 817-930-1160.
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