Looking for the next place to call home is always an exciting process. So, congratulations! But whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced one, there are various crucial factors to consider and steps to take before making your final decision. Thus, this process can be overwhelming as it is exciting. Luckily, your favorite professionals are here to remind you not to forget about the plumbing system as you continue your search for potential homes. It’s essential to be aware of any plumbing problems before buying a house because they can lead to expenses and hassle later on, and we highly doubt that is something you want to deal with right after moving in.
While not all red flags are necessarily deal breakers, it’s reassuring to have a clear understanding of what to expect before making any commitments. Your Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain experts have created a list of five warning signs (or red flags) to look for when inspecting potential properties.
RED FLAG 1: THE WATER HEATER
Many house listings will contain information about the water heater, but in case, yours does not, you can check it yourself during your house tour by checking for signs of dust, rust, or water around the base of the unit. These can give you a general idea of the water heater’s age and condition and suggest whether it has been properly maintained or has potential issues. Additionally, if the water heater in the house you wish to purchase is between 8-12 years old, it may need to be replaced soon, as that’s how long a well-maintained water heater normally lasts. Though this is not a major concern, as it is something that can be rectified, it’s something you should keep an eye for, as unexpected expenses will turn into huge headaches if you’re not prepared. On top of that, knowing about the water heater’s condition beforehand can help you in terms of negotiating.
RED FLAG 2: THE WATER PRESSURE
It is also important to check the water pressure during a house walk-through. This step is often overlooked. To ensure that there is sufficient water pressure throughout the house, we suggest testing each faucet and shower. You can also turn on the water and let it flow for a few minutes to accurately assess the water pressure in the home. If the water pressure is, in fact, low, you’ll want to know beforehand, as repairs can be costly.
RED FLAG 3: THE DRAINS & WATER LINES
Next, let’s think about the water lines and drains. This step complements the previous one. During the inspection of sinks and showers for water pressure, check for rust buildup in every drain. This issue is truthfully rare to find but can result in expensive damages. It’s also crucial to inspect all visible water lines, like those located under bathroom and kitchen sinks. So, while the faucet is still running, quickly peep underneath the sink to examine for discoloration or leaks and observe whether any water drips while the faucet is running.
RED FLAG 4: WATER DAMAGE
It is important to know where to look for water damage as it can be a cause for concern. Unfortunately, water damage can manifest in different forms and locations. Below are some suggestions on how to spot areas where water damage may reside.
- Check the base of the toilets in your house for any signs of pooling or puddles, as these may indicate a leak and may have already caused water damage in the area.
- Inspect every room in the house and look for water stains on the ceilings. These stains may have been the result of past leaks from pipes or the roof.
- Walk through the basement and crawlspaces (if possible) and search for any indications of water stains or leaks.
RED FLAG 5: MAINTENANCE RECORDS
If you are thinking about purchasing a home that you are interested in, don’t be shy to inquire about the plumbing system and its condition. Though it may seem like a bother, having this information will benefit you. Furthermore, requesting maintenance records for the plumbing work in the home can give you added security and help with any future upkeep or repairs. If there are no maintenance records available or if there have been several repairs made to one specific area, it could be a red flag and cause for concern.
THE SOLUTION: A PLUMBING INSPECTION
Purchasing a house is a significant commitment, and it’s important to feel at ease. The good news is that our plumbing inspection service can help you feel more confident as you make your decision. If you choose to purchase the property, you may request that this service is added to the terms. The seller will need to agree and arrange this.
What exactly do we do? Our licensed plumbers will perform a thorough inspection of all the plumbing equipment, pipes, and drainage systems to ensure that they are working correctly. They will also meticulously review other critical plumbing sections and equipment for optimal performance. This will help you decide whether the home is suitable for your family or if you should continue searching for your dream home. Furthermore, the inspection results may provide you with a bargaining chip during negotiations, which ultimately benefits you.
Looking for a reliable plumbing company? We’re here and ready to help! Call Huber Heights Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 764-3381, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!