How Can I Tell if my Property’s Plumbing Has Any Issues
Maintenance issues crop up all the time with rental properties, but when it comes to problems with the plumbing, it’s not always obvious the minute something goes wrong. Some problems go unnoticed for years, only to converge all at once in a leaky, watery mess.
Over our years of managing rental properties, we’ve become experts at spotting plumbing issues right away. Here are some things to look for during routine maintenance that will help prevent soggy emergencies.
Related: Why Repair?
Unusual Water Color/Odor
Odd colors or smells in your water could indicate a variety of plumbing issues. A reddish brown color could mean there is rust in your water heater, which if not replaced will rust through and cause a major leak. A bluish green color could be evidence of copper, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea if more than 30 parts per million. The most common odor associated with plumbing issues is a sulphur or rotten egg smell. This could be attributed to bacteria growing in your drain or hot water heater, or may indicate a more complex issue with your hot water heater.
Low Water Pressure
Faucets that barely produce a flow are a frustrating plumbing issue, but they may also be a symptom of a larger problem. Clogs, leaks, or narrow pipes can all restrict water flow and cause low pressure in your faucets. While there’s not much you can do to easily replace narrow pipes, clogs and leaks can both be fixed by a professional plumber.
Water Spots or Mold
Mold anywhere in your cabinets or walls could be a sign of serious leaks in your plumbing, as can water stains on walls and ceilings. If not addressed, these could cause structural damage and health issues, especially if an individual is already sensitive to mold or mildew. The most common areas for such leaks to occur are under kitchen and bathroom sinks, where pipes and fittings can become corroded or loose over time.
Related: Top Five Property Maintenance Issues and How We Will Fix Them
Unusually Green or Wet Lawn
If certain areas of your yard are overly lush or muddy, it could indicate an underground leak in your pipes or sprinkler system. Troubleshoot by turning your sprinklers off for a few days. If the lawn does not dry in this area, it may be a larger problem that could even stem to your city’s water supply. It might be good to call a professional plumber to take a look.
For help with these or any other maintenance issues, give RPM Evolve a call at 480-RENTALS. We can coordinate repairs for you to make your life a little bit easier.
