Water damage can be destructive to your rental apartment property. It can lead to issues like mold growth, rot, structural problems and damaged carpets and floors.

The cost of repairing water damage can be high. Therefore, it’s crucial for you as a landlord to inspect your rental properties regularly. 

Additionally, an apartment with no water damage makes the renting experience much more enjoyable for tenants. Act quickly when you spot a water leak during routine inspections or when notified by a tenant. Below are key steps to help you avoid water damage in your apartment rentals.

1. Conduct Regular Property Inspections

Preventing issues is more cost-effective than fixing them. You’ll want to conduct a tenant walkthrough inspection at move-in and check your plumbing and appliances regularly. During the inspection, be on the lookout for the following:

• Stains or watermarks on floors, ceilings, or walls. These can appear yellow, brown, or rusty.
• Paint damage, including cracks, bubbles, or peeling. Wallpaper may also begin detaching from the wall.
• Warping or bulging of walls, ceilings, or floors, especially on drywalls or wood surfaces.
• Mold growth, which thrives in damp environments.

Not all signs are visual, though. You may also need to touch and smell for soft spots on walls or ceilings and musty odors, especially if persistent.

Other signs include unusual noises of running water behind walls, a sudden rise in utility bills, or cracks in the property’s foundation. 

Regular inspections help catch potential water damage issues early, saving you from costly repairs and ensuring your tenants’ comfort and safety.

2. Pay Attention to the Gutter System. 

Properly functioning gutters are essential for your apartment’s safety. They help direct runoff from the roof. However, if dirt or debris hinders the gutters, they become clogged.

Clogged gutters can lead to water permeating internal walls, causing dampness and mold growth. To get rid of clogged gutters, follow these maintenance tips: 

• Regularly clean the gutters. Do this at least twice every year, ideally in spring and fall. 
• Inspect the gutters regularly for any signs of damage, such as sagging, rust, holes, or cracks. 
• Consider installing gutter guards or screens to help reduce the amount of debris entering the gutters. 
• Trim overgrown trees to stop them from shedding leaves and debris directly into the gutter. 

Keeping your gutters clean and well-maintained helps ensure the safety of your property and your tenants’ health.

3. Inspect for Roof Leaks

Many landlords don’t pay attention to the roof but regular roof inspections are necessary to prevent leaks.

Check the property’s interior for signs of water damage and, if possible, examine the roof for damage. For interior inspections, look for these signs:

• Water stains or discoloration on ceilings and upper walls, often brown or yellow.
• Mold growth, especially in areas with excessive moisture.
• Damp spots on floors, walls, or furniture.

For exterior inspections, check for missing shingles, missing flashing, clogged gutters, or signs of ponding water if it’s a flat roof. 

When inspecting the roof yourself, make sure to use the right equipment and take the necessary safety precautions. Ideally, it’s best to leave the work to a professional, especially if the roof is slippery, steep, or in a state of disrepair. 

4. Check Window Seals

Windows without proper sealing will also cause water damage to your home. Window seals are designed to create a tight barrier against the wind and rain. However, over time, these seals can deteriorate, allowing water to seep into your home. 

If the seals can no longer effectively block rainwater, the water can leak through the gaps surrounding the frame. Constant water leakage can cause mold growth, peeling paint, and structural damage. 

Failing window seals can also lead to condensation buildup between panes, which can eventually drip down and cause damage to the surrounding areas. 

Therefore, regular check-ups for window seals can reduce the possibility of having failing seals that may lead to potential water damage. Consider using dehumidifiers to lower humidity and fight condensation. 

5. Inspect Downspouts

Downspouts, or drain pipes, are important components of your gutter system. Their role is to direct water collected in the gutters down to the ground. 

They help prevent water damage to your home by diverting rainwater away from your home’s foundation or by preventing erosion and damage to the siding. 

To ensure the downspouts work as effectively as possible, do the following things:

• Regularly clean the downspouts to get rid of debris and even nesting animals. 
• Extend the downspouts further away from the house. 
• Install elbows on gutter downspouts to direct water flow away from patios or walkways. 

By maintaining downspouts, you can protect your property from potential water damage and foundation issues.

Bottom Line

Preventing water damage in your rental property is essential for maintaining its value and providing a safe home for your tenants. Taking these five steps will help you keep your property safe from leaks and water damage. 

If you’d like expert help in preventing damages or overall management of your rental apartment, look no further than B&R Property Management. We have been assisting rental apartment owners in Las Vegas since 1981. Get in touch today to learn more!