Are you currently in the housing market looking to buy your next home? If you are, that’s exciting, so congratulations! Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or have done it before, there are many important factors to consider and steps to take before completing the sale to obtain your dream home. But don’t forget; while you are viewing potential homes, make sure to inspect the plumbing system as it is a crucial aspect to be aware of. Being mindful of any potential plumbing problems before buying is important, as they can be expensive and troublesome to fix later on. It is important to know which red flags to watch for when considering a property. Fortunately, Lebanon Plumbing & Drain has created a list of 5 such red flags that you should keep in mind during the house touring process.
RED ONE – AN OLDER or UNMAINTAINED WATER HEATER
If a house listing does not provide information about the water heater, you can still get a basic idea of its age and condition by looking for signs of dust, rust, or water at the base of the unit during your walk-through. These signs can indicate poor upkeep, an older unit, or issues with the unit itself. Bear in mind that if the water heater is 8-12 years old, it may need replacement soon, as that is the general lifespan for a well-maintained water heater. Although it’s not a huge red flag and shouldn’t keep you from pursuing your dream home, it’s just one thing of which you will want to be mindful.
RED TWO – LOW WATER PRESSURE ISSUES
It’s important to remember to check the water pressure during a house walk-through, as this is often overlooked. We recommend testing each faucet and shower to ensure sufficient water pressure throughout the house. In addition, we suggest allowing the water to run for a few minutes after turning it on to get an accurate sense of the water pressure in the home. Low water pressure can result in expensive repairs, so it’s important to be aware of this issue well beforehand.
RED FLAG THREE – DAMAGED DRAINS OR WATER LINES
Next, you’ll want to inspect all visible drains and water lines. You can actually complete this while performing the previous step. While checking the sink and shower water pressure, examine each drain for signs of rust buildup. Though uncommon, this can be costly to repair. Additionally, inspect all exposed water lines, including those under bathroom and kitchen sinks. Search for discoloration or leaks and watch for dripping water when running the faucet.
RED FLAG FOUR – SIGNS OF WATER DAMAGE
It’s crucial to be able to identify the signs of water damage as it can manifest in different forms and locations. Look out for these indicators to be aware of any potential issues.
- Check the base of the toilets in your house for any water pooling or puddles, as these could indicate a leak and potentially cause water damage in the surrounding area.
- Inspect all the ceilings in every room of the house for any water stains, as these may have been a result of previous leaks from either the roof or pipes.
- Walk through the basement and check the crawlspace( if possible) for any indications of water stains or leaks.
RED FLAG FIVE: NO MAINTENANCE RECORDS/EXCESSIVE REPAIRS
If you’re thinking of buying a home, it’s crucial to inquire about the plumbing system with any questions you may have. Although it may appear bothersome, it’s necessary to know the state of the plumbing in the home. You can also ask for the plumbing maintenance records of the property to provide you with extra assurance. These documents may be handy for future maintenance and repairs. Moreover, if there are no maintenance records available or if there have been frequent repairs in a certain area, it may be a cause for concern.
WHY DO WE SUGGEST A PLUMBING INSPECTION?
When buying a house, it’s important to have peace of mind. The great news is that our plumbing inspection service can provide the reassurance you need for this big commitment. Our licensed plumbers will perform a thorough inspection of the plumbing equipment, pipes, and drainage systems to ensure they are operating correctly. They will also meticulously review other critical plumbing areas and equipment for optimal performance. This can help you determine if the home is suitable for your family or if you need to keep looking for your dream home. Moreover, the inspection results could provide you with a point of leverage for negotiations, which can be advantageous.
Do you need a reliable plumbing service? We are here and ready to assist you! Call Lebanon Plumbing & Drain today at (513) 427- 2443, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!