Hello Homeone Forum,
I am seeking some sound advice from electricians/plumbing/building professionals in regards to an ongoing issue with my investment property.
I am the landlord of a 1 bedroom flat in inner Melbourne. The property has 12 attached flats. The building is at least 50 years old, and the flat was practically in original condition (ie unrenovated) when I purchased it. Although the bathroom is tired looking, all fittings and plumbing seemed to work. The walls are extremely solid. There is no fan, although window was recently replaced to have a mesh grill allowing a constant flow of fresh air. The bathroom has a bath with an overhead shower with a semi attached screen. This section of the bathroom is tiled, whilst the rest is painted. The tiles look original and there is minor signs of mould. The room itself is quite large and can accommodate a washing machine with ease.
After purchasing, I got the flat repainted, the kitchen retiled (tiles were falling off), blinds replaced and oven and heater updated. The bathroom got a new window (it was broken) and a few cosmetic updates.
After 6 months of owning the property I received a complaint that my bathroom was causing damp patches on the other side of the adjoining wall. After getting a plumber to inspect the bathroom and confirming no broken pipes, he fixed a minor dripping leak on the shower head, and it seemed like the issue was resolved.
Unfortunately I have recently received communications from the owner of the adjoining property again, claiming that the dampness has returned. He is now wanting me to repair and repaint his wall.
I have organised a plumber to go back in to determine if there is a new leak.
However, i require some honest feedback on the pricing and time frames of the following.
1. Retiling and placing a waterproof membrane on the tiled area of the bathroom
2. Installation of a fan, where no fan currently exists and with a basic electrical setup.
I fully understand that the above mentioned things are very important aspects to get sorted in any bathroom and will certainly ensure that nothing on my side is to blame for this dampness. However I am concerned on the time it will take as I currently have a renter in the property and wish to have it sorted as quickly a possible at the most reasonable price.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.
Mrebella.