How Landlords Can Protect Their Rentals from Water Damage

3/19/2025 (Permalink)

Protect your rental property by staying proactive—and if water damage happens, contact SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo today!

Owning a rental property comes with a long list of responsibilities, and water damage is one of the biggest risks to your investment. A small leak today could turn into an expensive repair tomorrow—especially if a tenant doesn’t report it right away. About 1 in 60 insured homes file a water damage or freezing claim each year, with an average payout of nearly $14,000.

The good news? There are ways to reduce the risk of water damage, avoid expensive damage, and keep your tenants happy. By staying proactive, you can prevent minor issues from turning into major headaches.

Regular Inspections

One of the best ways to protect your rental is to inspect it regularly. A quick check a couple of times a year can help you catch leaks, plumbing issues, or roof damage before they lead to bigger problems.

Pay special attention to areas that are more prone to water damage—like under sinks, around appliances, near the water heater, and in the basement or crawl space. If your property has older plumbing, consider having a professional check it every year to spot potential issues before they become emergencies.

Drainage & Gutters

A well-maintained drainage system can make all the difference in preventing water damage. If water isn’t properly directed away from the property, it can seep into the foundation and cause serious structural issues.

Make sure your gutters are clean and free of debris, especially before the rainy season. Downspouts should direct water at least a few feet away from the foundation. If you notice water pooling around the property after heavy rain, it might be time to adjust the landscaping or install a drainage system to keep excess water from becoming a problem.

Tenant Communication

Even with the best prevention methods in place, your tenants play a big role in protecting your rental. If they don’t report a leak or follow basic water damage prevention steps, small problems can go unnoticed for too long.

Consider adding a simple water damage prevention section in the lease agreement, outlining things like:

• Reporting leaks or plumbing issues as soon as they notice them.
• Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper.
• Keep an eye out for slow drains or signs of water buildup.

Regular communication goes a long way. A quick reminder about leak prevention when signing or renewing a lease can help tenants feel responsible for the property’s upkeep.

Appliance & Plumbing Maintenance

A leaking appliance hose or an old water heater can cause just as much damage as a burst pipe. Regular maintenance can help avoid sudden failures.

If your rental has an older water heater, check for rust or corrosion and replace it before it fails. Washing machine hoses should be replaced every few years, and dishwasher connections should be inspected regularly.

If your property has multiple units, it’s especially important to keep up with plumbing maintenance. A leak in one apartment can quickly spread to the units below, turning a small issue into a much bigger (and more expensive) one.

What to Do If Water Damage Happens in Your Rental

Even with the best prevention, water damage can still happen. The key is acting fast. If a tenant reports a leak, don’t wait—send someone out to inspect it immediately. If there’s flooding or major damage, shut off the water supply and document everything before calling a professional.

It’s also a good idea to have an emergency plan in place. Make sure tenants know where the main water shutoff valve is and provide them with emergency contacts for after-hours situations. Being prepared can make all the difference in minimizing damage and repair costs.

Top Questions About Protecting Your Rental from Water Damage

How often should I inspect my rental for water damage?

At least twice a year—before and after rainy seasons. If your property is older or has had water damage in the past, more frequent checks are a good idea.

Are landlords always responsible for water damage repairs?

Not necessarily. If the damage is caused by a structural issue or plumbing failure, it’s usually the landlord’s responsibility. However, if the tenant’s negligence caused the issue (like an overflowing bathtub or failing to report a small leak), they might be held accountable.

Can I require tenants to report leaks in the lease?

Yes, and it’s a smart move. Adding a water damage prevention clause in the lease can make it clear that tenants must report leaks and plumbing issues immediately.

What’s the first thing I should do if my rental has water damage?

First, stop the water at the source. Then, document the damage with photos and contact a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo to handle the cleanup and repairs.

Call SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo for Water Damage Restoration

Even with the best prevention strategies, water damage can still happen. When it does, fast action is critical. At SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo, we specialize in:

• Emergency water extraction & drying
• Structural repairs after water damage
• Mold prevention & cleanup
• 24/7 response for water damage emergencies

Protect your rental property by staying proactive—and if water damage happens, contact SERVPRO of Marina Del Rey/Westchester/El Segundo for expert restoration.