ASSOCIATIONS 7 consumer . All piping from the meter onto the private property is the responsibility of the owner or tenant as prescribed by the lease agreement . It is , therefore , advisable to always use a qualified plumber when maintaining or repairing water mains on the property .
Sewage backup is very messy and undesirable . In large-scale properties , this problem is caused by natural disasters , as well as clogged or damaged pipes . Qualified plumbers will be able to mitigate this risk through scheduled maintenance and inspections of the sewer lines . They will also repair damaged systems in the correct manner . This is considering that there have been many instances where improper repair methods and overuse of chemicals have damaged sewer lines , costing the property owner more in the long run and potentially jeopardising municipal infrastructure .
Barring damage caused to property , another risk associated with sewage backup and other types of water damage is disease . This includes typhoid and scarlet fever , cholera and dysentery , as well as diseases of the brain , lungs or kidneys . Exposure to contaminated water can also compromise immune systems . Leptospirosis is another particularly harmful bacteria that grows in contaminated water . It causes acute inflammation , fever and jaundice . Meanwhile , mould and fungi that contain neurotoxins which cause severe respiratory disorders also grow in moist areas . Moreover , these damp areas attract pests and vermin that also transmit disease .
Water-damaged electrical wiring can also result in electrocution or a fire . Vacant properties during the lockdown were especially at risk considering that leaks would go unnoticed for protracted periods causing significant damage , including to electrical systems inside buildings .
Always use a qualified plumber and remember to ask for a CoC .
“ It is really a case of ‘ buy cheap , buy twice ’. The many risks associated with skimping on plumbing maintenance ; poor quality plumbing workmanship ; and the use of inferior plumbing products just to save a bit of money are simply not worth it . Dealing with a qualified plumber gives you peace of mind that your plumbing systems have been installed , maintained and repaired correctly and safely . Should disaster strike , you know you are covered ,” Reynolds concludes . PA
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February 2023 Volume 28 I Number 12 www . plumbingafrica . co . za