If you face the unfortunate event of water leaking in your rental home, staying calm and acting quickly is crucial. Taking immediate action can greatly contribute to effectively resolving the problem. Here is a guide on how to handle a leak 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 may be able to stop 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 this, locate your water main 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
After shutting 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 limit the water’s spread and dry cabinets, table legs, and other wood.
If your carpet or rugs are soaked, use towels to soak up as much water as you can. Then, open the windows and turn on multiple 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 should be informed of what occurred and how you’ve dealt with the problem. Water leaks must be addressed promptly to prevent serious damage.
If you delay addressing the problem, you could be held responsible for the damages. By calling your landlord, you can work together to organize repairs 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 handling a water leak in your rental home is to practice effective prevention. Once you identify the cause of the leak, you need to take steps to prevent it from happening again. If you can, protect your drains and pipes from extreme temperatures, clogs, and other common issues.
Consistent maintenance is key to preventing water leaks. Keep on top of maintenance concerns and inform your landlord when you see 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 make a significant difference.
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Originally Published on April 2, 2021
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