Common Plumbing Issues in Apartment Buildings

Each day, the average family uses about 400 gallons of water. Apartment building owners need to manage this water usage on a significantly larger scale than homeowners.

Due to the nature of renting, plumbing systems in apartments can experience a high degree of wear and tear. Many complexes are equipped with an advanced plumbing system to keep it all running smoothly.

Unfortunately, when one unit has a problem, it can rapidly spread to the others. As such, it’s in a property manager’s best interest to anticipate the following apartment-related plumbing issues.

Clogged Toilets

A common residential issue, clogged toilets can be a whole different animal in an apartment complex. These systems are built to withstand a wide range of waste, yet plumbing can get backed up from a sewer line or a resident throwing non-flushable items down the toilet.

When this occurs, multiple units may experience backups. Resulting in significant water damage, overflow can spread to adjacent units and residences below. Even if the water remains in the toilet, it can quickly develop a strong, pungent odor and attract microorganisms.

Clogged Drains

Similar to clogged toilets, clogged shower or sink drains can also affect multiple units at once. This issue frequently stems from buildup in the pipe that may be sudden, like a hard object getting dislodged, or gradual, like the accumulation of fats when cooking oils and grease are washed down the drain.

In a bathroom, the combination of hair, soap and shampoo can result in water sluggishly traveling down the shower drain. Here, stagnant water can pool in the sink or tub, often creating an odor over time.

Frozen Pipes

In older, less-insulated buildings and structures where plumbing partially runs along the outside, frozen pipes are more likely to occur. Similar to a single-family home, the water in the pipe freezes, expanding and causing the plastic material to crack. Flooding and subsequent damage often result but in an apartment, this situation can be multiplied based on the number of units.

Considering this risk and the damage that may result, it’s recommended that property or building managers insulate any exterior pipes and those not running near a heat source.

Dirty Water

Another issue primarily affecting older buildings and communities, corrosion can occur in the water and sewer pipes. As a result, residents throughout the building may experience water quality issues that can impede drinking from the tap or indicate all pipes need to be replaced.

Leaks

What happens when multiple units experience a leaky faucet? Oftentimes, the owner sees a significantly higher water bill in less time, indicating the building is consuming far more than it should.

This sign can also point to another serious issue: The leak may not just be from the faucet. Instead, multiple units may be experiencing rot and mold issues from a less-visible leak.

Sewer Line Breaks

If a sewer or main line experiences damage or a backup, expect all units in your building to be affected. This issue can encompass changing water pressure, sewage coming out of the toilet or drain, or routine clogs without any explanation.
 
Do you manage an apartment building? If your complex or community experiences any plumbing issues, contact M.J. Fahy & Sons to examine the plumbing system and recommend repairs. Schedule an appointment today.