Flush-able wipes

Property managers need to have a good understanding of the different building systems present in houses or apartments.The sanitary and sewerage system is the least glamorous of these but is obviously essential for the happy functioning of any rental property. One common issue that occurs is that blocked drains caused by tenants disposing of items other than toilet paper down the drains. Generally, correct tenant selection will filter out rough tenants who are likely to do this type of thing. However, educating your tenants and having suitable clauses in your tenancy agreement is also essential.

The problem of flushable wipes, a ghastly modern invention, illustrates the value of preparedness and experience when managing rental property. Tenants may get the faulty impression from the marketing literature associated with these wipes that they will breakdown. However, it is necessary to educate tenants that wipes are not permitted and that if wipes are used then the tenants will be pursued for costs if they do cause blockages by using these wipes. If blockages do occur close liaison with the drain-clearing contractor can establish liability. Having a clause in your tenancy agreement that spells out what is acceptable will help if the matter goes to the Tenancy Tribunal.

Unfortunately wipes are not really flushable and are now being blamed for blockages in the sewerage system and at sewerage treatment plants . The wipes do not breakdown like toilet paper and have a tendency to block old clay pipes or any equipment at treatment plants. The wipes also combine with fat to create blockages that take days to clear. These wipes are now responsible for up to 93% of all plumbing blockages.

They are a symptom of the current foolish trend to over medicate and complicate life with technology.