If you experience the unfortunate situation of water leaking in your rental home, staying calm and acting promptly is key. Prompt action can greatly aid in effectively resolving the problem. Here’s a guide on what actions to take if there is a leak in your rental property.
Shut off the main water supply
If you detect water coming from somewhere it shouldn’t, your first action 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, locate your main water shut-off valve. It may be located in the basement, utility room, or outside the home. Then, with a wrench and pliers, 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 reduce 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. Then, 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
Once the water flow is under control, it is crucial to call your landlord immediately. Your landlord needs to be informed about what happened and what steps you’ve taken to address the issue. Water leaks need immediate attention to prevent serious damage.
If you don’t address the issue promptly, you could be held accountable for the damages. By contacting your landlord, you can arrange to have the leak repaired and deal with any other damage in the home. Remember, acting promptly can prevent serious damage and 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 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 crucial for preventing water leaks. Stay vigilant with maintenance concerns and let your landlord know if you see signs of a developing issue. By addressing issues before the pipes burst, you can significantly help prevent water leaks in your rental home. Being proactive can make a significant difference.
Interested in trading your current Kuna rental home for one maintained year-round by qualified professionals? Real Property Management Boise is here to assist! Visit our website to view our listings or give us a call at 208-494-1800.
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