It is the landlord's responsibility to ensure that the residential property is maintained in a habitable condition, including the proper upkeep of the plumbing system. Neglecting preventative maintenance can lead to expensive repairs in the future. Check out these tips to avoid those costly repairs:
- Routine Checks: Check for visible leaks or signs of water damage. If you see any wet spots or water stains on the walls and ceiling, chances are you have a leak. Also, inspect your water pressure by turning on your faucets and checking the flow of water. Low pressure can indicate a blocked line.
- Preventative Maintenance: There are steps you can take to maintain your home’s plumbing system.
- Clean your drains regularly with vinegar and baking soda to prevent clogs.
- Installing drain screens to catch hair and other unwanted items from going down the pipes.
- Keep an eye on your water heater, check for leaks and/or corrosion on the tank or pipes. Drain and flush the tank annually to ensure sediment doesn’t build up in your tank.
- Guidance: Helping the tenant realize what to do and not to do can go a long way. Common plumbing practices such as not flushing non-biodegradable items down the toilet, never pour grease or cooking oil down the sink, throw away eggshells and coffee grounds. Also monitor the water bill for any sudden increases. Encourage tenants to report any problems immediately.
- Prevent Freezing Pipes: Winterizing pipes is an important precaution to take in the colder months. Shut off valves and insulate pipes with pipe insulation or heat tape.
- Hire a local plumber: Some issues are an easy fix, more complex issues will require a licensed plumber. If something goes wrong such as major leaks, busted pipes, sewer line blockages or sewer backups happen, it’s best to call a plumber.
Remember to stay proactive in your plumbing maintenance efforts to ensure the longevity of your plumbing system as a landlord. This benefits your tenants and protects your property investment.
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