Plumbing issues have a way of appearing at the least convenient moments, and in a rental, they often come with extra layers of stress. Small missteps can quietly turn into hidden problems, and when something finally goes wrong, tenants are left wondering who is responsible, how quickly it will be addressed, and whether it could affect their security deposit. While not every plumbing issue is preventable, adopting a few smart habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of disruption — and the awkward conversations that sometimes follow.
Treat Drains With Care
One of the most common sources of plumbing trouble starts in the kitchen. Oils, grease, sauces, coffee grounds, rice, flour, and other starchy foods may seem harmless in the moment, but over time they can accumulate inside pipes and form stubborn blockages. These materials rarely cause immediate issues, which makes them easy to overlook — until water begins backing up and professional help is suddenly required.
Grease is particularly deceptive. While warm, it flows easily down the drain, but once it cools, it solidifies and creates a sticky surface that traps other debris. A better approach is to let grease cool in a disposable container before throwing it away. As a general rule, if a substance is thick, gritty, or expands in water, it does not belong in the sink. These small precautions can help you avoid the inconvenience of needing to call a residential plumber for an entirely preventable problem.
Use a Hair Catcher—and Maintain It
Bathroom drains are especially vulnerable to slow-building clogs caused by hair. Length doesn’t matter — short or long hair can combine with soap residue and shampoo to form dense tangles inside pipes. This process takes time, but once it starts, the buildup only accelerates.
Installing a simple hair catcher in the shower and bathroom sink can prevent most of this accumulation. The key is consistency: emptying the catcher regularly ensures it continues to do its job and keeps hair from slipping further into the plumbing system.
Keep Toilet Use Simple
It’s tempting to think of the toilet as a disposal system where anything flushed simply disappears, but plumbing systems are far less forgiving. The safest rule is also the simplest: only toilet paper should go down the toilet. Despite their name, “Flushable” wipes do not break down the way toilet paper does and are a frequent cause of costly blockages.
Anything else — wipes, paper towels, hygiene products, or similar items — should be disposed of in the trash. Following this guideline helps prevent unpleasant surprises and protects both the plumbing system and your peace of mind.
By being mindful of how sinks, showers, and toilets are used, renters can greatly reduce the risk of plumbing issues and enjoy a smoother, more comfortable living experience — without emergency calls or unnecessary complications.