A toilet overflow is a stressful plumbing emergency for both tenants and landlords, leading to water damage, unsanitary conditions, and costly repairs if not handled quickly. Knowing the right steps can make a significant difference. Here’s what to do when a toilet overflows in a rental property.
1. Shut Off the Water Immediately
The first step is to immediately stop water from spilling onto the floor. Find the toilet’s shut-off valve on the wall behind or beside the toilet and turn it clockwise firmly until the water stops. If you can’t turn the valve or it’s not working, quickly remove the tank lid and carefully lift the float until the water stops filling the tank.
2. Clear the Area and Protect Your Belongings
To prevent water damage, move rugs, towels, and personal items away from the overflow area immediately. If water is spreading, use towels to soak it up or a wet/dry vacuum (if you have one) to contain and halt its spread to other parts of the home.
3. Try to Remove the Blockage (If Safe to Do So)
Most overflows are caused by clogs. Use a plunger to loosen the blockage if water is not rising. If you suspect a foreign object is causing the clog, wait for a professional to arrive.
4. Sanitize the Area
Overflow water can carry bacteria. Once you’ve stopped the overflow, use gloves and disinfectant to thoroughly clean all wet surfaces. Open windows or use a fan for ventilation, and resume normal use only when surfaces are dry and clean. If multiple rooms are affected, call a professional cleanup service.
5. Notify Your Property Manager Right Away
Report any overflow to your property manager promptly. Even after stopping the water and clearing a clog, plumbing issues may remain. Quick reporting documents the problem and ensures a licensed plumber can address the root cause before it worsens.
6. Prevent Future Overflows
Never flush wipes, paper towels, cotton rounds, or feminine products—even if labeled ‘flushable.’ Remind everyone in your home. Landlords should schedule regular plumbing inspections for older rentals to catch problems early.
7. Know When to Call Emergency Maintenance
If turning off the water does not stop the overflow, if sewage backs up, or if water rapidly spreads, treat it as an emergency. Immediately call your property manager or emergency maintenance for urgent help.
Call the Local Experts for Fast, Professional Help
A toilet overflow can become a major disaster if not addressed promptly. Whether you need assistance as a tenant or landlord, Rent Portland Homes – Professionals responds quickly, coordinates maintenance, and keeps your rental property safe and functional.
Contact Rent Portland Homes – Professionals today for fast, reliable property management and maintenance support. Learn more about the property management services that we can offer you by calling us at (503) 646-9664, Talk to a Live Person – Our office answers the phone 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday – or click here to connect with us online.
