WA_HS_Summer 2023 12p-web

Beating blocked drains

Blocked drains are a common cause of tenant liability as many tenants are not aware of what should or should not go down toilets or kitchen drains. Housing Choices WA is responsible for repairing burst pipes or naturally blocked drains. However, if we find that the blockage is directly caused by the actions of the tenant they may be charged for the repair.

Are you going away?

5 things that can’t go down drains

Grease or cooking fat

We recognise that on occasion you may need or wish to be away from

Food or food scraps (including eggshells)

Cleaning products

your home for an extended period.

Produce stickers

If you plan on being away from your home for more than 4 weeks, please get in touch with your Tenancy Officer. It is important for us to know you are going away and how long you plan to be away for, so we can check that arrangements have been made to pay rent and to keep the property well maintained while you are gone. We also need to know who to contact about any property or tenancy issues when you are away. If we don’t know you are away and can’t contact you, it may seem that the property has been abandoned which could risk your tenancy so please keep us informed.

Medication

5 things that can’t go down toilets

Wipes or products advertised as flushable

Sanitary/hygiene products

Tissues or paper towel

Cotton buds

Too much toilet paper at one time

Tips for avoiding blocked drains • Drain covers can help prevent hair going down shower drains and can catch food debris in your kitchen sink. • A slow or weak toilet flush often indicates that a clog is forming in your toilet drain. Use a plunger to try and release clogs or small blockages before they become a more serious issue. • Regularly clean your drains to dislodge any build up that may occur. Pour 1 cup of bicarbonate soda, 1 cup of warm water and 1 cup vinegar in and around the drain and leave for 20 minutes then pour warm water down and around the drain.

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