We ensure that plumbing drains are clear at the start of the lease and any clogs thereafter are tenants responsiblity. Clogs can be a big source of frustration, below is some information on what you can do, and when you may need the help of a pro.
Toilets: A blocked toilet could simply be too much TP or a foreign object that got into the toilet trap (we have found makeup bottles, the TP holder, etc)
If the toilet is blocked and overflowing, shut off the water at the supply valve, here’s a video that shows you how to do just that: https://youtu.be/iVMtaY_jWxE
Once you have the water off, usually a plunger can clear the blockage if the issue is something simple like too much TP for one flush. Here is a quick how-to on plunging toilets: https://youtu.be/-
If you are unable to clear the blockage with a plunger, it may be blocked by something that went down that shoudn't have; a foreign object like makeup bottles, TP holder spindles, etc. If it flushes ok with no solids, but backs up again with TP/solids this is often an indicator of a bigger issue. For this you may need to hire someone to remove the object before the toilet will function properly.
Once the clog is cleared, remember to turn the water back on.
Sinks and Tubs/Showers
The most common cause we have found for slow or clogged bath sink or shower drains is related to hair from the occupants, in kitchens you should pay close attention to keep food particles from going down the drain. Per the lease, the rental is delivered with clear working plumbing drains and once you are in, subsequent clogs are up to the residents to solve (or hire help for same). We have found draino to be ineffective.
We suggest a zip strip drain clearing tool. Here is a video for sinks https://youtu.be/JG10HxcgCg4 and a video for tubs https://youtu.be/V98tkbh3Gys They are under $3 at home depot or lowes and requires no tools.
Alternately, you could try a sink plunger, here are a couple options
Here is a quick how-to on plunging sinks: https://youtu.be/Ws79UoDddWI
Once you have the clog cleared, we suggest a hair catcher or drain screen to keep the hair or food from going into the drain. You can get these locally at the big box stores, they are not expensive.
Need a pro's help? If you are unable/unwilling to tackle the task, you could call a pro at your expense. Western Mass Router (Mark) 413-253-1505, Fletcher Sewer and Drain 413-788-7200 or Bill Colson sewer and drain 413-896-0611 or rotorooter.com.