Buying a home is exciting. Most buyers focus on the kitchen, flooring, bedrooms, and backyard. As plumbers, we look at a home a little differently.
We are looking at pipes, drains, water pressure, water heaters, toilets, sewer lines, leaks, and signs of improper installation. Those things may not be as exciting as new countertops, but they can have a much bigger impact on your wallet.
At Plumbs Up Plumbing, we regularly meet homeowners who discover major plumbing problems shortly after closing. Some face repairs costing thousands—or even tens of thousands—of dollars.
And it is not just older homes. Brand-new homes can have plumbing problems too.
A general home inspection is important, but plumbing is an entire trade of its own. A plumbing professional can take a closer look at the system and identify concerns that may become expensive after closing.
Here are a few things buyers should watch for:
Check the Pipes. In older homes, find out what type of piping is installed and whether it shows signs of deterioration. In newer homes, the bigger concern may be whether the plumbing was installed correctly.
Pay Attention to Drains. Slow drains, gurgling sounds, or multiple fixtures draining poorly can indicate a larger problem. In new construction, debris can sometimes enter drain lines during the building process.
Do Not Ignore the Sewer Line. The sewer line is underground and easy to overlook. Cracks, roots, damaged connections, blockages, or construction-related damage can become very expensive repairs.
Look at the Water Heater. In an existing home, check its age, condition, and signs of leaking or corrosion. In a new home, make sure it appears properly installed and free of leaks.
Test the Water Pressure. Turn on the shower, another faucet, and flush a toilet. A significant drop in pressure may indicate a problem that deserves further evaluation.
Open Every Cabinet. Look underneath sinks for moisture, stains, swelling, corrosion, or loose connections. A small leak can eventually damage cabinets, flooring, or walls.
Check the Toilets. Toilets should feel secure and should not rock or move. Look for moisture or staining around the base.
The easiest way to avoid an expensive surprise is to have the plumbing professionally inspected before you buy.
Whether the home is 50 years old or finished last month, a whole-house plumbing inspection can help you understand what you are buying and give you an opportunity to address problems before closing.
At Plumbs Up Plumbing, we would much rather help you find a plumbing problem before you own the house than meet you afterward because that problem became yours.
Plumbs Up Plumbing – Serving Greenville and the surrounding communities
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