With weather events becoming more unpredictable, experts warn that high rise plumbing systems are under greater stress than ever before. Heavy rain, storms, heatwaves and sudden temperature drops can put enormous pressure on plumbing systems, and high rise buildings are particularly vulnerable, due to the sheer scale and complexity of their pipe network. Strata management and owners are being urged to book in their high rise building inspections now before the peak tourist season hits to avoid costly and inconvenient plumbing disasters later.

Waterproofing membranes naturally deteriorate over time, but constant exposure to moisture, UV rays, wind and shifting building movement speeds up this process. Even small cracks or pinholes can lead to water ingress which over time can spread across multiple floors and cause costly structural and internal damage.

More Tourist Means More Pressure on High Rise Plumbing Systems 

From the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast, summer means an influx of tourists and that means water usage skyrockets. Toilets, showers, laundry, pools and commercial kitchens all get used more, so plumbing systems that are already weakened often fail under the extra pressure. 

What starts as a small invisible issue can fast become a far bigger problem. Minor membrane failures can lead to mould, a slow leak behind walls can cause bubbling and swelling and blocked drainage systems can cause water to backflow causing damage across multiple floors of the building. The worst part is if you are relying on insurance to fix the problem, you could be waiting months, only to have your claim rejected due to poor maintenance.

Protect Your Plumbing and Your Reputation

Not only are plumbing problems more expensive to fix during the busy peak season, but they can also be disruptive to guests and damage your good reputation. Bad reviews about room closures, cancellations, mould, damp smells and ruined holidays can seriously affect bookings and cost revenue long after the plumbing issue has been resolved. Once a reputation is tarnished it can be hard to restore.

Staying on top of maintenance and investing in leak detection and repairs and high rise concrete repairs in the off season can save property owners money, stress and reputation. Preventative inspections are faster, cheaper and less disruptive to everyone and early detection can help property owners and managers avoid tens of thousands of dollars in repair bills later.