One of the common problems that Milford rental property owners have to deal with is water damage. Even when it’s just a relatively small amount of water, it can still be quite destructive. It can get into ceiling joists, walls, floors, and even weaken a building’s foundation. Just a couple of inches of water on the floor can lead to tens of thousands of dollars in repairs. While it would be quite impossible to avoid all water-related emergencies, there is are things you can do, as a property owner, to prevent water damage. And, by preventing water damage, you save yourself from the costly repairs that come with it. The following are tips that can keep your Milford investment property safe from preventable floods and leaks.
Prepare for Severe Weather
Severe weather incidents can bring about water damage. This is especially common in places where storms are just part of life. Water damage is a greater risk when there is strong wind and heavy rain. And if your property is in a flood-prone area, you’ll have to account for the chance of flash flooding as well.
To prevent water damage, you have to prepare your rental property for severe weather. For example, do an annual inspection of your roof and seal any cracks or gaps you find. If there are shingles that are missing, replace them as needed. Also, ensure that your flashing, gutters, and downspouts have been correctly installed and are in good shape. If you’re expecting a period of heavy rain, improve the drainage around your property’s foundation so that the water flows away from the walls. If your property is in a flood zone, think about having sandbags on hand. Or, at least, have some sandbagging supplies nearby. These can really help protect your property. Even during unexpected weather events, preparation is key. With a little preparation, you’re doing a lot to help keep your property safe and dry.
Clean the Gutters
Other likely causes of water damage are incorrectly installed and clogged gutters. The gutter system is there to help the water flow away from the structure of your rental property. The problem is when leaves, twigs, and other debris fill the gutters. When this happens, the water will start to overflow out of the gutters and onto the side of the house instead. This brings about so many kinds of problems– leaking ceilings, wood rot, damaged drywall, and even ruined flooring. And, if leaking gutters aren’t cleaned quickly enough, the water damage may reach the cement foundation and start to erode it. Also, this would wreak havoc on your landscaping.
To stop this from occurring, simply clean your rental property’s gutters at least two times a year. Clear out any debris you find and also check for leaks and pooling water in the gutter system. When you habitually clean and make small repairs on a gutter system, you’re not only preventing water damage but you’re also saving on long-term repair costs.
Inspect Your Plumbing (and Water Heater)
The inside of your rental property isn’t exempt. Water damage can also happen because of plumbing issues. Leaking pipes, broken faucets, worn-out washing machine hoses, and old water heaters are the usual sources of water damage. Even something people regard as small– like a slow or blocked drain– can potentially cause serious water damage. And that damage could cost a lot in emergency repairs.
To prevent water damage from affecting the inside of your rental home, make it a point to have an annual inspection of your entire plumbing system. During the inspection, a professional plumber will notice any developing problems before they become obvious. You can then have that fixed right away. By addressing plumbing problems before they worsen, you prevent water disasters. You also prevent having to pay a lot of money on repairs. It’s also crucial to keep track of your water heater’s age and condition. Make sure to have it serviced regularly and replaced before it fails. A failing water heater can leak water and flood a basement or garage. Now, you’ll have to pay for clean-up and repairs on top of the cost of replacing the unit. By replacing it before it fails, you can plan out your cash flows better and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Preventing water damage can be difficult. For sure it requires both time and good management. Instead of doing it all yourself, consider hiring one of our professional Milford property managers to handle your preventive maintenance and inspections. To learn more, contact us online.
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