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My sink/shower is clogged

🔍 Problem identification

  • Signs of a blocked drain:

    • Slow drainage of water

    • Bad odors coming from the trap

    • Gurgling noises

    • Overflows during use

    • Standing water accumulation

  • Points to check:

    • Visible trap: presence of deposits/objects

    • Drain cover: accumulation of hair/residue

    • Other water points: isolated or general problem

    • Condition of seals around the drain

  • Emergency situation if:

    • Significant overflow risking flooding

    • Infiltration to neighbors

⚡ What to do?

  • First response solutions:

    • For the sink:

      • Remove the grid/strainer and clean visible residue

      • Use a plunger:

        • Put 2-3 cm of water in the sink

        • Cover the overflow with a damp cloth

        • Pump vigorously 5-6 times

        • Release and check drainage

    • For the shower:

      • Remove the grid and clean visible hair

      • Use a manual snake or special hair hook

      • Pour 2L of boiling water slowly

  • If the problem persists:

    • Dismantle the trap (if accessible):

      • Place a basin underneath

      • Unscrew fittings by hand

      • Clean thoroughly

      • Reassemble carefully checking the seals

  • Do not:

    • Do not use aggressive chemical products

    • Do not force fittings when dismantling

    • Do not dismantle built-in pipes

    • Do not let the problem worsen

📱 How to report the problem?

  • Through your tenant portal:

    • Category: "Technical Assistance - Plumbing"

    • Specify:

      • Water point concerned

      • Since when

      • Solutions already tried

  • Photos/videos to provide:

    • General view of the area

    • Video showing slow drainage

    • Photo of trap if visible

⏰ Intervention timeframes

First response must be by the tenant. Basic maintenance is usually sufficient.

Colonies can take over if the problem comes from a built-in pipe or requires intervention from a qualified plumber.

💰 Who covers the costs?

  • Covered by Colonies:

    • Main pipe problems

    • Blockages in common area networks

  • Tenant's responsibility:

    • Regular maintenance of drains

    • Unblocking due to misuse

    • Damage caused by negligence

⚠️ Points of attention

  • Prevention:

    • Keep or install protective grids

    • Do not throw in drains:

      • Oils and grease

      • Wipes/cotton

      • Food waste

      • Hair

  • Regular maintenance:

    • Clean grids regularly

    • Pour boiling water monthly to dissolve residue

    • Check seals regularly

💡 Good to know

  • Natural tips:

    • Mix of baking soda + white vinegar

    • Boiling water + salt

    • Monthly preventive cleaning recommended

  • Warning signs:

    • Drainage slowing down

    • Unusual odors

    • Gurgling noises

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