Service
Appliance leaks in Olympia homes
Washing machines, water heaters, dishwashers and refrigerator ice-maker lines all leak. Some leaks are loud and obvious, others go unnoticed behind a cabinet. Call to be connected with an independent contractor once the source is off.
Calling soon after you find the water usually leaves more choices. The call goes to an independent contractor.
Shut off the source first
Most appliances have their own shutoff valve at the wall or under the unit. Closing it stops the flow without cutting water to the whole house. If you cannot find or turn the valve, shut the main valve where the line enters the house.
For a leak you cannot stop at all, the City of Olympia asks customers to call Public Works at 360.753.8333; only City staff open the meter.
Sudden or slow
The state insurance regulator gives two examples of sudden damage that policies are built for: a supply line bursting under a sink and a dishwasher that overflows during a cycle. It says most policies do not cover gradual leaks, such as a faucet that drips for a long time or a pipe leaking behind a wall.
So the first photograph that matters is of the source and the date on it. Record what you saw and when you found it.
What wets more than you expect
- Laminate and engineered flooring, which swell at the seams.
- Cabinet bases made of particleboard.
- The wall cavity behind the appliance.
- The ceiling of the room below, if the leak is upstairs.
Questions people ask
Do I call the plumber or the restoration contractor?
Both, in most cases. The plumber stops and repairs the leak. The restoration contractor deals with wet materials.
Water still spreading? Make the call.
You will be asked what is wet, where the water came from and whether it has stopped. Have the street address in front of you.