When Water Damage Occurs In Apartments And Rental Units
Water damage in apartment complexes, condos are offices can result in costly repairs. Lack of tenant knowledge and neglect can cause water damage to be an incredibly expensive overhaul. If your complex has multiple levels, not only will water damage affect the unit of which the damage occurred, but may result in extensive damage to the units below. Water damage can result in a number of ways and due to extra plumbing and appliances in offices or complexes, the likelihood of water damage occurring can increase.
While the lease can outline the landlord and tenant responsibilities, most tenants may default to the understanding that all maintenance is the responsibility of the landlord. That is not the case, while the units need to be livable or maintained for workplace activity and have regular plumping and appliance checks, the tenant has a responsibility to report any plumbing and appliance failures or damage to the landlord as soon as possible. It’s important to educate your tenants on proper appliance usage and maintenance, and report any malfunctioning appliances immediately.
Regular maintenance and inspection of HVAC units, water heaters, and plumbing lines can help landlords stay proactive and be aware of vulnerable areas where water damage may be likely to occur. A thorough inspection of units between unit turnover can help landlords assess the condition of the plumbing and appliances. Washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators and freezers all contain water lines. These appliances If damaged, old or improperly maintained can cause leakage. Additionally, over time, gaskets and fixtures can break down and wear out which can lead to leaks and subsequent water damage.
With housing and buildings becoming more energy efficient the more difficult it can be to air out rooms. Bathrooms, utility rooms, and kitchens are areas where moisture can get trapped. Without proper ventilation, water particles can penetrate through drywall, cabinetry, and flooring, which over time can cause bacteria buildup causing mold to grow and potentially spread. Mold spores can penetrate porous surfaces, but can also spread throughout the unit which can result in subsequent damage throughout other areas of the property.
Even the smallest bit of water can do serious damage if a reoccurring issue is neglected or not properly fixed. Excess water should never be removed from carpeting with a regular household vacuum cleaner. These cleaning appliances are not meant to be submerged in water and also do not have the capacity or ability to suction water correctly. Using a household vacuum cleaner in an attempt to clean up waterlogged carpets can cause the appliance to burn out and potential injury or electrocution. Standing water can have the same effect of a torrential rainstorm. Just a few inches of standing water can cause drywall and other porous surfaces to become waterlogged which can cause them to rot and become structurally insecure.
A professional remediation agency, like Champion Cleaning Systems, will have the proper tools and equipment to remove excess water, such as hoses and dehumidifiers. Commercial cleaners may be required to penetrate porous surfaces to fully eradicate bacteria that can lead to mold and mildew growth. Professional technicians will be able to work quickly to remove damaged materials, limit additional damage from occurring and restore your property to its pre-loss condition.
