Unlike single-family homes, apartment buildings have a more complex plumbing system. Apartments also tend to experience more plumbing issues than individual dwellings due to the progressive impacts of heavy use over time. Add to that the fact that having control over how tenants treat the property, in general, can be tricky, making it harder to notice damage, especially in the early stages.
Regular maintenance can help keep the apartment’s plumbing systems in shape. Besides this, it’s best to have a professional plumber you can rely on during emergencies to help prevent further damage when an issue arises. To know when to call for professional help, below is an outline of common plumbing issues in apartments.
DIY Plumbing Disasters
Some plumbing issues seem easy to fix. But do-it-yourself (DIY) repair attempts, especially if inexperienced, can worsen the situation or lead to another issue.
Say you’re trying to fix clogged sink pipes. If you fumble when replacing or installing them, it can cause leaks or damage. Hence, it’s best to consult professionals near you, like Fergusons Plumbing, if you’re in Sydney, Wollongong, or Nowra in Australia. They have the expertise and appropriate equipment to deal with and prevent costly disasters. Some companies offer rapid same-day services, helping you deal with plumbing issues on time before they become more expensive.
Irregular Maintenance Checks
Regular maintenance checks are crucial in evaluating the pipes, tanks, and water heaters. When done too late, irregular checks can lead to pipe corrosion, severe blockages, or other avoidable problems.
Larger apartments typically have more chances of experiencing plumbing leaks due to the tenant’s capacity. However, managers can create a system with their tenants to help facilitate timely plumbing repairs.
Letting them know what to do and who to call during emergencies can also help prevent expensive plumbing damage. Additionally, working with one professional plumber familiarizes them with the apartment’s plumbing history, saving time and allowing them to get more personalized service.
Clogged Drains And Toilets
Clogged drains and toilets are minor plumbing issues that can result in significant damage if not addressed on time. Apartments have different people in them, with some caring less about what goes down the drain.
Accumulation of non-waste materials flushed down toilet drains can block the drainpipes. Food remains, hair strands and grease residue buildups from the sink or bathroom can also lead to clogs. Clogging in an apartment is an issue that needs immediate handling as it can lead to the backup of multiple sinks or toilets along the line, with larger backups even causing floods in lower units and destroying tenants’ living spaces and property.
Ceiling Damage From Upper Units
Much activity goes on in apartment plumbing. Continuous use without regular maintenance can lead to the aging of plumbing pipes. Old pipes lack the strength to handle the heavy activities of apartments, causing leaks.
Leaking pipes within apartment floors can cause water spots, leading to ceiling damage. Pipes can also block due to drainage misuse by some tenants, causing bathroom flooding. Bathroom flooding from clogged drains can damage lower unit ceilings. Below are signs of ceiling water damage.
- Warping or sagging ceiling
- Mold or mildew
- Ceiling stains
- Musty smells
If you notice these signs, it’s best to call a professional plumber.
Dirty Water
Water contamination in apartments can be due to many reasons, with rusty pipes being the primary culprit, especially in old apartments. Decades of pipes delivering water in an apartment can make them rust.
The breaking down of corroded pipes can lead to dirty water being supplied in apartments. The problem might be easy to deal with if the rusty water comes from one faucet as the pipes, meaning the pipes around it are the only ones affected. However, if rusty water comes from all faucets and showerheads, calling a professional plumber to analyze the origin of the dirt color would be best.
Dilapidated Safety Valves
Apartments have safety valves that help control each unit’s drainage and water supply. Regularly checking them and ensuring they are properly working and in good condition guarantees an effective plumbing system. However, maintaining safety valves can prevent slow drainage and low water pressure.
Conclusion
Water supply and drainage are among the key aspects to focus on in offering quality service to tenants. However, drainage systems need proper maintenance to continue functioning. Failure to do that might lead to plumbing issues, with others being highly costly. Knowing about apartment plumbing issues is essential for any apartment owner, manager, or tenant.
Comments 1