Whether from above or below, water damage can wreak havoc on your rental units. Many
property owners fail to realize that water can wick upwards into drywall, wood, and other porous
materials, causing damage that extends beyond where the water level ends. If left un-remedied,
this can lead to mold – and health hazards for your tenants.
Here are a few tips on how to prevent water from damaging your rental units:
● Clear gutters: When there is a leak from the ceiling or roof, it can often be traced back
to a clogged gutter. Leaf and tree matter can cause water to build up and under shingles
and other types of roofing as well as chimney boots. An experienced property manager
can assess your guttering and make the necessary arrangements to ensure that it is
clean and clear.
● Repair basement drains: Excessive rain can cause flooding to basements and lower
levels. Ideally, you should check your property’s basement drain before the rainy season
starts. While water to the lower level of your property may be unavoidable, a working
drain can ensure it never overflows.
● Use catch basins: Water near the foundation of your property can lead to serious
problems over time. Not only can it penetrate into basements and cellars, it can cause
mold and structural problems. Further, it can make showing your property to prospective
tenants a disaster any time it rains. A relatively simple solution is to have your property
manager install a catch basin wherever water pools on your property. Connected to PVC
piping entrenched underground, this solution can drain rainwater away from your
property and ensure your foundation is safe.
● Use a sump pump: When a drain fails, or when water builds up, a sump pump can bail
you out. First, ensure that the sump pump pit is clear and free of debris. Next, run the
pump line out at least 10 ft away from your property. It’s also a good idea to install a
battery back-up pump in case of a power outage.
If water does get inside your property, you need to act fast. Carpet and padding will likely need
to go. Also, wet or damp dry wall must be removed. An experienced property management
service can resolve a water damage issue to your property as quickly and cost-effectively as
possible. Better yet, they may be able to prevent water damage from occurring in the first place.
