Silicone Seals

The silicone seals around your bath, shower, vanity, and toilet base are the first line of defence against water penetrating into the wall framing and floor structure. Inspect silicone seals every six months. Replace any seals that are cracking, peeling away, discoloured with mould, or showing gaps. This is a straightforward maintenance task that prevents serious structural water damage.

Grout Condition

Cracked or missing grout in shower and wet area tiles allows water to get behind the tiles and into the wall structure. Regrout any deteriorating areas promptly. Applying a grout sealer annually helps prevent moisture absorption and extends the life of the grout significantly.

Shower Screen and Door Seals

Shower screen seals and door sweeps wear over time and allow water to escape onto the bathroom floor. Check that seals are intact and replace them when they harden, crack, or fail to hold water effectively. This is a low-cost item that prevents floor damage and slip hazards.

Ventilation

Adequate ventilation is essential to prevent mould in bathrooms. Ensure the extractor fan is operational and actually extracting to the outside rather than just recirculating within the ceiling cavity. Run the fan during showers and for at least 15 minutes after. Under the Healthy Homes Standards, rental properties must have adequate bathroom ventilation.

Tapware and Waste

Dripping taps and slow drains are the most common bathroom plumbing issues. Address dripping taps promptly — a small drip can waste thousands of litres per year. Slow drains are usually caused by hair and soap buildup and can be cleared with a drain snake or appropriate drain cleaner.

Toilet

A running toilet cistern can waste significant water. If you can hear the toilet refilling or see water running in the pan, the inlet valve or flapper seal may need replacement. Check the base of the toilet for any signs of leaking, which can cause floor damage and odour.

Walls and Ceiling

Check the bathroom ceiling and walls near the shower for any soft spots, paint bubbling, or signs of mould. These are indicators of moisture getting behind linings and require investigation. Painting bathroom ceilings with purpose-formulated moisture-resistant paint helps reduce mould growth.

For Landlords: Rental Bathroom Maintenance

Bathrooms in rental properties are subject to more intensive use and less attentive maintenance than owner-occupied homes. Carry out a bathroom inspection at each tenancy transition, checking silicone seals, grout, ventilation, tapware, and toilet. Address minor issues immediately to prevent them developing into significant repair costs.

Selwyn Property Services provides bathroom repairs and maintenance for rental properties and homeowners throughout Selwyn and Canterbury.