Properly functioning shower heads and diverters are essential for maintaining safe, operable bathrooms in rental units. While there are relatively few defects to monitor, understanding them can help housing providers stay inspection-ready and ensure resident satisfaction.

Common Defects

When it comes to shower heads and diverters, there are three main inspection concerns:

1. Missing Shower Head
   • If a shower head or handheld wand is missing, the shower is considered inoperable.
   • Inoperable showers are severe deficiencies:
     • Voucher inspections: 30-day repair window and automatic failure
2. Leaking Shower Head or Valve
   • A leaking fixture, whether provider- or resident-owned, is considered a moderate deficiency.
   • Consequences include:
     • Failing the unit for voucher inspections
3. Inoperable or Damaged Diverter
   • A diverter should direct the majority of water to the shower head (roughly 80–90%).
   • Common issues include:
     • Only partially diverting water (e.g., about half instead of most)
     • Not resetting automatically after the shower is turned off, particularly in areas with hard water
   • Deficient diverters are inspection failures and need repair

Ownership Considerations

• Resident-installed shower heads: Once a resident installs a new shower head or wand, it becomes part of the unit and is treated as your responsibility for inspections.
• Ownership does not exempt a fixture from inspection standards once installed.

Best Practices for Housing Providers

1. Check all installed shower heads and diverters during routine maintenance.
2. Test diverters by running water to ensure most of it is directed to the shower head and that the diverter resets when the water is off.
3. Replace or repair missing or damaged shower heads immediately to avoid severe inspection deficiencies.
4. Document repairs and inspections to stay prepared for inspections.

Key Takeaway

Even a simple fixture like a shower head or diverter can have major inspection implications. Ensure all fixtures are present, operational, and correctly installed—ownership does not change your responsibility once the item is installed.