Owning rental property can be a great investment, but it comes with its fair share of responsibilities—especially when it comes to plumbing. A small leak or clogged drain might seem minor, but left unresolved, it can lead to costly damage, angry tenants, and even legal issues. As a landlord, understanding basic plumbing care and maintenance is essential to protect your property and keep your tenants happy. In this article, we’ll cover smart, actionable plumbing tips every landlord should know to avoid emergencies and costly repairs. If you're a landlord on the South Shore looking for reliable help, Plombier Rive-Sud is your go-to plumbing partner for professional, fast, and dependable service.

1. Know Where the Main Water Shut-Off Valve Is

Every landlord should know exactly where the main water shut-off valve is located in their rental property. In an emergency like a burst pipe or water heater leak, turning this off quickly can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. Show your tenants too—it could save you both a major headache.

2. Educate Tenants on What Not to Flush or Pour Down Drains

Most plumbing clogs come from misuse. Create a simple tenant guide that lists what shouldn’t be flushed or poured down sinks and toilets (e.g., grease, coffee grounds, feminine hygiene products, wipes—even the ones labeled “flushable”). Prevention is the best protection.

3. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections

A once-a-year plumbing inspection can uncover small issues before they become big problems. Pipes, faucets, water heaters, and drains should all be checked periodically. If you manage multiple units, setting up routine inspections with a trusted Plombier Rive-Sud can save you money long-term.

4. Install Water-Saving Fixtures

Low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads can significantly reduce water usage and utility costs—especially in multi-unit buildings. These upgrades are code-compliant, eco-friendly, and a smart investment for landlords.

5. Watch Out for Leaks and Water Damage

Encourage tenants to report leaks right away—even minor ones. Water spots, peeling paint, or warped flooring can signal hidden plumbing issues. The faster you respond, the lower your risk of mold growth or structural damage.

6. Protect Pipes in the Winter

Frozen pipes are a common issue during Quebec winters. Insulate exposed pipes and ask tenants to keep heat on during cold snaps. If the property will be vacant, consider having a plumber winterize the system to avoid freeze-ups.

7. Maintain Water Heaters

Water heaters typically last 8–12 years. As a landlord, stay on top of annual water heater maintenance, including flushing the tank and checking the pressure relief valve. A broken water heater means no hot showers—leading to tenant complaints or rent withholding.

8. Use Professional Help, Not Band-Aid Fixes

DIY fixes might seem like a way to save money, but temporary solutions can lead to permanent damage. Always call in a licensed, professional plumber—especially for complex issues like sewer backups, gas lines, or pipe replacements.

Need reliable support? Our team at Plombier Rive-Sud works with landlords and property managers to handle everything from emergency repairs to routine maintenance.

9. Include Plumbing Terms in Your Lease Agreement

Set clear expectations in your lease about tenant responsibilities (e.g., reporting leaks, avoiding drain misuse, keeping heat on in winter). This can protect you legally and help prevent tenant-caused damage.

10. Keep Emergency Contact Info Handy

Tenants should always know who to call for after-hours plumbing emergencies. Provide a 24/7 contact number—either yours or your trusted plumber’s—and make sure response times are fast to prevent further damage.

Final Thoughts: Stay Proactive, Not Reactive

Landlords who stay on top of plumbing issues save more money, face fewer complaints, and protect their property’s value. Being proactive is always better (and cheaper) than dealing with burst pipes or emergency calls at midnight.

Looking for a reliable, long-term plumbing partner on the South Shore? Contact Plombier Rive-Sud to schedule an inspection or set up recurring maintenance for your rental properties. We help landlords keep things flowing smoothly—literally.