Clogged Pipes... My Expense or renters? 🚽💵🛠

[Jed Massey]

In contract with a property that has been known to have a expense of unclogging the pipes. These clogs are not pipe related but rather the tenant flushing of wet wipes and or other products that should be thrown away not flushed. They are out of contract and now month to month. Am I able to put in the rental contract a fee for clogged pipes due to these inconsiderate flushes. Or the bill and a fee. That way if they do not pay on these issues or remedy them then it will be a breach of contract to start a evection process. Curious if anybody has ran across this and what their solution was.

[Wesley W.]

Sounds like it is your tenant's responsibility, but if you've not stated so in your lease you may be in for an uphill battle.  If your lease is silent on this, you may be in for some pushback.  My recommendation, regardless, is to amend your lease moving forward if this issue is not addressed therein.  Here is my lease provision that pertains:

23. PLUMBING: You shall report all drips and leaks immediately to the Property Manager. You shall never pour cooking grease or other damaging/obstructing objects down toilets, sinks or drains. No products aside from bathroom tissue may be flushed down the toilet. This includes feminine hygiene products and “flushable” wipes. You are liable for all expenses or repairs resulting from the stopping of waste pipes or overflow and spillage from sinks, tubs, toilets, showers, washbasins or containers.