The best way to deal with bathroom water damage is to prevent it before it occurs.  Implementing a regular routine of checking potential trouble spots will give you an opportunity to fix a small problem before it turns into a big and expensive one.

To start with you want to pay particular attention to the toilet.  When a toilet leaks it can release not just clean water, but also contaminated sewer water.  This means that you not only have to deal with physical water damage to the property, but also health concerns.

You want to carefully inspect the toilet water lines monthly for any potential leaks, allowing you to nip a problem in the bud.  Also check for leaks around the tank, seat and hose.  Moisture on the floor is a clear indication of a problem.  The toilet rim and seals around the tank may need replacement.  Once a problem is identified, be sure to repair it promptly.  If you wait it could get worse resulting in a more serious and bigger problem for you to deal with.  If you ever notice that the floor feels spongy, then bathroom water damage may have already occurred.

The shower is another potential source of water damage in the bathroom.  It is responsible for containing a large amount of water on a regular basis.  Heavy use results in natural wear and tear that needs to be regularly maintained.  First look for any cracked or damaged tiles and replace them.  At the same time ensure that there is not grout that has come away from between them.  This can lead to water getting behind the tiles and causing damage. Be sure to check the caulking around the walls and floor.

Look under the sink for mold and moisture.  This is a prime place for bathroom water damage to begin, but due to being hidden by cabinets, it is often not discovered until it is too late.  Check the trap, pipes and seals and replace any that are cracked or loose.

Observe the moisture levels in the bathroom as well as the room beside it.  If you notice water stains on the walls then there is a problem and the root cause should be determined.  If you can not find the source yourself then call a professional for help.

To minimize excess humidity be certain to install and use an exhaust fan.  This will circulate the air and ventilate the room.  Use it during hot baths and showers.  Then examine the fan regularly to check for mold and moisture.

Preventing the need for bathroom water damage repair before it becomes a serious problem is difficult, because most of the plumbing and pipes are hidden in the walls.  This is why it is even more important to watch for soft floor areas and water marks on the drywall.  Left unfixed, small leaks can lead to big problems and even bigger repair bills.