Skip to content
Renter-focused guidance · No account required
SolutionPlumbingMaintenance first

A supply, drain, or faucet connection may be leaking

Moisture in the cabinet or around a faucet base needs prompt maintenance because the source may worsen and damage cabinets, flooring, or the unit below.

Why this result fits

  • Water is beneath the sink, around a connection, or at the faucet base.
  • The source may appear only while the faucet or drain is used.
  • The leak is contained and away from electricity.

What to do now

  1. Stop using the fixture

    Avoid running the faucet or draining water until the source is checked.

  2. Protect belongings

    Move cabinet contents away from the wet area without disturbing plumbing.

  3. Document without disassembly

    Photograph the wet location and note whether it appears during supply flow or drainage.

  4. Contact maintenance promptly

    Report any swelling, staining, odor, or evidence that water is reaching another surface.

Stop and escalate if

  • Water is spreading rapidly or entering another unit.
  • A supply hose bulges, sprays, or separates.
  • Water is near electricity or the cabinet floor is unstable.

What not to do

  • Do not tighten, loosen, or remove plumbing connections.
  • Do not rely on a bucket as a continuing repair.
  • Do not use the fixture repeatedly to identify the source.

Message you can send to maintenance

Water is appearing [under the sink/around the faucet base] when [the faucet runs/the sink drains/continuously]. I stopped using the fixture and moved belongings. The water is currently [contained/spreading].

Help prevent a repeat

  • Keep cabinet contents clear enough to notice moisture.
  • Report swelling, staining, or recurring dampness promptly.

If this does not match

Sources and review date

Content last reviewed: under the Apartmentwise methodology.