Condo Plumbing Basics (What You Need to Know to Be a Good Neighbor)

Unless you are a plumber, it’s pretty likely that you don’t know too much about your plumbing system. But why would you anyway? Until water starts leaking out from a wall or the toilet floods the bathroom, many people don’t have any reason to think about their plumbing!

When living in a condo, if a plumbing pipe has a clog or a leak, it is a struggle to determine who pays for the repair. Condo plumbing systems are typically split up into tenant and public-owned pipes. In the most usual situation, the pipes inside and directly outside the unit are the responsibility of the tenant. This can get complicated as multiple units may share plumbing pipes, so it’s important to do your part in preventing damage.

In this blog, we will explain all the basics of your condo’s plumbing, and show you what to do to be a good neighbor! In need of a plumber at your complex? Give John the Plumber a call today at (954) 781-4823 for all your plumbing needs!

The Basics of Condo Plumbing

Every plumbing system uses potable water pipes. These pipes are pressurized and are used to transport clean water from the city to your condo, home, apartment, etc. They are also used in the draining system, which transports your used water back to the city’s water treatment plant. These two piping systems are entirely separate to ensure your clean water never gets compromised with dirty water.

Most Common Condo Plumbing Complications

Some plumbing issues are more common than others. As we explained, the location of the issue determines who is responsible. Even though the piping system in the building is shared, most condos have the mapping which shows who is responsible for specific pipes.

Here are a few of the most common plumbing complications in condos:

Clogged drain lines - Drain lines can become clogged easily if the wrong things get flushed or drained. Typically, if the clog is in a sink, shower, or toilet, it will be the responsibility of the tenant.
Leaking pipes - Pipes that leak can be discovered by a mildew like smell, water spots on the walls or ceiling, or any mold appearing. Leaks often become complicated for condos as the walls affected may be shared by units.

Sewage backup - When the main sewer line gets clogged up, it can cause the sewer to back up. A clog at the main line would be the responsibility of the HOA or condo management, while a clog at a shared drain line could need to be inspected further to determine the responsibility.
Damaged water pipes - All pipes will degrade as time goes on, leading to cracks, corrosion, leaks and, bursts. This is even more common at a joint or turn in the piping system.

How To Be a Great Condo Neighbor

When living in a shared space, you want to make sure you’re not causing any plumbing issues that can be prevented.

Most of the time, your issue won’t just affect you, but the homes around you as well. Leaking pipes can cause mold and water damage on your neighbor’s walls, risking the health and safety of everyone in the building.

Here are some easy ways to prevent clogs and other plumbing issues:

Don’t flush any baby wipes, even the flushable ones!
Avoid flushing any paper towels, napkins, or feminine products.
Don’t put oils, fat, coffee grounds, or egg shells down your drain, they can cause clogs.
Get a drain cover to collect hair to prevent any buildup in the shower.

John The Plumber is Here to Help

Small clogs, leaks, and other plumbing issues should be addressed as soon as possible. Ignoring these issues could cause them to get worse, affecting others in the condo building.

But don’t stress, John the Plumber is here to help! Whether you need to fix a small clog, or you need a serious repair, our 5-star local plumbing company will get the job done. Schedule us today; (954) 781-4823!