Important Facts about Water Leaks
• Water leaks lead to mildew and bad odors in the units which creates irate owners and tenants. • Tenants rarely report to management signs of leaks, such as hissing sounds from a leaking toilet or dripping sinks, showerheads, faucets, or the outside sprinkler. • As temperatures plummet, the risk of pipes freezing and bursting skyrockets. Pipes most at risk are those in unheated interior spaces, such as basements, attics, and garages.
• Sewer charges in many municipalities are directly affected by the amount of water consumption multiplied by a fixed factor amount. The higher the water usage, the higher the sewer cost. • Water leaks can subject tenants to significant health risks from mold, mildew, toxins, etc., and can result in an insurance nightmare stemming from multiple claims when one unit’s water leak quickly spreads to other units. • A dripping faucet can waste 3,000 gallons a year. That’s as much water as 180 showers.
Observable Signs of Water Leaks or Wasted Water Consumption
Non-Observable Signs of Water Leaks
• Broken or malfunctioning water meters • Foundation leaks: underground pipes are in constant contact with the soil. Electrolysis occurs over the years causing leakage and corrosion of the pipes • Pool leaks • Broken and/or corroded pipes behind walls • Timing of the irrigation system • Equipment with the water off can still leak
• Visible drips from faucets, showerheads, and toilets • Hissing sounds from the toilet and the hot water boiler • Constantly needing to refill the pool • Curling vinyl floors • Peeling paint on the walls • Mold spots • Over-occupied units
A DRIPPING FAUCET CAN WASTE 3,000 GALLONS A YEAR.
PAGE 31
Powered by FlippingBook