An apartment complex is a great investment for many companies, but there is a long list of to-do’s to make sure the complex is well-maintained. With multiple transient tenants, apartment complex managers have to be on their toes when it comes to proper maintenance, especially when it comes to plumbing. If a pipe were to go unnoticed and burst, it can affect an entire building unit, which may mean displaced, unhappy tenants.
Create a Checklist
As a complex manager, you want to be proactive in maintenance, as this will help establish a good reputation with tenants and help keep your numbers in the black. A checklist will help keep you in good standing with building code inspections, as well as keep your tenants happy. Apartment complexes often have a checklist in place to be used when a tenant moves out, but if there is not one in place, it is a good idea to create one. On this list should be items, such as checking building codes and maintaining the heating and cooling system, but one the most important items should be having the plumbing inspected regularly.
Check Your Pipes Regularly
Apartment complexes do have a lot on their plate when it comes to maintenance, and it would be easy to see a problem go unnoticed until it’s too late; but proper tracking and bookkeeping can keep complexes from coming under fire when a plumbing issue does occur. It is in the best interest of the complex to have the plumbing inspect after each tenant moves out, just to keep on top of any potential problems. A professional plumbing inspection will not only solve the smaller, manageable problems, but it will also identify any potential problems that may arise in the future.
If it is not feasible to have a plumbing inspection after every move out, then complexes should create an inspection schedule that works for them. An inspection schedule will help apartment complex managers keep on track with their regular inspection, which, in turn, will help establish a written record of all plumbing inspections. If there is little to no written account of inspections, the complex can be held liable for any damages incurred by tenants when a plumbing issue does in fact occur. All complexes want to avoid this, and the best way to do so is with a set inspection schedule.
Water heaters, most assuredly, should be checked on a regular basis. Water heaters have an average life of 8 to 15 years, if properly maintained, and can be quite expensive to replace or repair. These units should be checked often for any corrosion in the pipes or dirty looking water. If the tap has sediment in the water when turned on, there is an issue with the water heater that needs to be remedied quickly.
A professional plumbing inspection can help keep problems on the horizon at bay and keep your tenants happy. The last thing any apartment manager wants is an entire building suffers from a plumbing problem that could have been avoided with regular inspection. If you run an apartment complex, call a professional plumbing inspector today to ensure that your complex’s pipes are debris-free and healthy, particularly with the colder winter months fast approaching.
