4 Plumbing Issues to Check for Before You Buy a House
Buying a house is an exciting yet stressful time. We’ve heard from many homeowners that it ended up costing them more time and money than originally intended due to existing plumbing issues they weren’t aware of when purchasing the home. To be sure you know exactly what you’re getting into before buying, we recommend always checking for some common plumbing issues before signing any final contracts. Here’s what to look for when checking plumbing in your potential new home:
Faucets, Sinks and Toilets
Testing the sinks and toilets throughout the house will give you an understanding of the water pressure, and the general health of the plumbing. You should:
- Check underneath all sinks for signs of leaks
- Turn on all faucets and flush all the toilets
- Watch how quickly the water drains down the sinks
- Check around the base of each toilet for signs of leakage or rust
Main Sewer Drain
There are several issues you might encounter with the main sewer drain, like tree roots growing into it, or breakdown due to age. Unfortunately checking the main sewer drain isn’t as simple as flushing a toilet. You’ll need a licensed plumber to conduct an inspection and verify that there aren’t any issues or signs of damage. A damaged sewer drain can be very costly to repair, so it’s critical that you have this checked before buying a house.
Water Heater
Your water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, and one you’ll rely on every day. When it comes to the water heater in your potential new home, check for the following:
- Any unusual noises coming from the tank when you switch it on
- Discolored water, or water with particles coming out of the hot water tap
- The age of the hot water heater. If it’s more than 12 years old, chances are it will need replacing soon
- Rust or corrosion on the tank
Water Meter and Supply
Looking at the water meter is a telltale way to check for leaks. Shut off all of the faucets throughout the home and take a look at the water meter. Is it still turning? That means the plumbing system has sprung a leak somewhere.
If you’d like more information about how to check out any potential plumbing issues before you buy a house, please contact our team at Crosstown Plumbing today and visit our website at: https://www.crosstownplumbing.com/
