Plumbing issues can’t be ignored. Yet, a lot are easy to ignore, as homeowners may hold off on repairs for something like a small leak from the faucet until they have extra time to address it. Putting it off like this, unfortunately, can cause further damage to the home and can end up causing the cost to fully repair the home to increase significantly. Some of the reasons it’s important to have repairs done right away are to prevent the following.
Potential Health Risks
There are potential health risks when there is anything leaking in the home. If the leak is not addressed quickly, it could lead to mold growth, which can cause health concerns for everyone living in the home. Homeowners who need a plumber for any potential issues in the home should call right away to prevent the mold from growing and prevent anyone in the home from getting sick.
Structural Damage To The Home
The leak may not seem to be big, but it can still lead to structural damage to the home as the water pools in lower-lying areas. It doesn’t take a lot of water to start causing the wood to decay, which means the home can suffer from severe issues that will be incredibly expensive to fix. By taking care of the leak right away, it’s possible to protect the home from further damage and ensure it remains in great shape.
Safety Hazards
There are safety hazards that can be associated with a leak. If the water reaches any wires, it can end up causing a fire or electrocution. It isn’t always easy to see if this is happening, either, as it may happen behind the walls. As soon as there is a leak detected, it is important to have it repaired quickly to help prevent a house fire or keep everyone in the home safe from electrocution.
Increased Water Costs
The cost of water should be fairly consistent from month to month, but it can increase if there is a leak. This is one way to detect a hidden leak within the home, as a drastic rise in water costs shows that there is extra water going somewhere within the home. Even a small faucet leak can end up wasting thousands of gallons of water, though, so leaks should be fixed as soon as they’re detected to prevent the bills from increasing.
Decreased Property Values
In the long run, leaks can end up decreasing the value of the home. When it comes time to sell, if there is apparent water damage or there is a leak that is still an issue, it can reduce the potential value of the home. Homeowners who are thinking about selling will want to fix any leaks, even if they’re hidden, to make sure the home is in good shape and to help keep the value higher.
If you’ve noticed any signs of a leak in the home or water bills are increasing with no apparent cause, it’s time to call a plumber today. Don’t hold off and wait for a better time to schedule repairs or to see if you can fix it on your own. Call in a professional to make sure it’s fixed properly right away to prevent these and other issues that could occur because of a leak.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
