A building manager needs to know about their plumbing. It will put you and your residents at ease knowing that if something goes wrong there is someone to address the issue. It will also help because you will know how frequently the pipes need to be inspected and when they need to be replaced.
Ask About Your Plumber
Knowing your plumber is going to help ensure a long life for your pipes. You need to make sure your designated plumber-or plumbing company-is licensed. You should know if they charge hourly or if their service is one flat rate, and confirm the total cost before you go through with any repairs or contracts.
You need to ensure any warranty they give you is in writing. The warranty is going to cover details on whether they will fix anything that breaks and how long you are covered by the warranty.
Ask What Kind of Pipes Are in The Building
Knowing the material of your pipes is crucial for their maintenance. The four main materials used in plumbing pipes are copper, PVC, brass, and galvanized steel. Copper and brass are the most expensive pipes, but they will also last the longest. If you know the pipe’s material beforehand it is going to help you describe any issues to your plumber. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages
Ask About the Pipes’ Age
Good pipes are supposed to last about twenty to seventy years. If you are taking over a building in a large city, you need to ask about the age of the pipes. Knowing the age is another factor in keeping up with their maintenance. As pipes get older, it’s more likely they will clog or plant roots will grow through them. Their age will help you and your plumber decide on a maintenance schedule to keep them and your tenants happy.
What if You Have Lead Pipes
If the building you manage was built before the 1980s then there’s a chance you have lead parts in your pipes. If this is the case you need to change them or have them coated as soon as you can. Lead can be very dangerous if it is ingested over a period of time. Some major cities still have apartments and other building with lead piping, so make sure it’s not in your building.
Lead poisoning can cause vomiting, irritability, hearing loss, and memory loss. In children, lead poisoning can lead to developmental delays, which could really set the child back in their education.
Knowing your building’s pipes will help keep them in shape. You need to know the material they are made of and how old they are so you and you plumber know how to keep up with their maintenance. When you know the details of your pipes, you are going to give your tenants confidence in you as a manager. You will know how to address any issues they have and assure them any problems will be fixed immediately.
