Purchasing a new home is a significant investment. While the excitement of moving into your dream house can be overwhelming, you must conduct a thorough inspection of its plumbing system. A faulty plumbing system can lead to costly repairs, so new home buyers must pay close attention to the pipes, fixtures, and drainage before finalising the purchase.
This guide focuses on the key areas of a home plumbing evaluation and provides tips on what to look for during a plumbing inspection.
· Why a Plumbing Inspection is Essential for New Home Buyers
A plumbing inspection ensures the house’s water systems, drainage, and sewage are in good working condition. Issues like leaking pipes, faulty faucets, or blocked drains might not be obvious at first glance, but they can lead to major problems. By conducting a new home buyer’s plumbing inspection, you can avoid unexpected expenses and ensure the home’s plumbing system will work efficiently for the coming years.
· Areas to Focus On During a Plumbing Inspection
To make your home plumbing evaluation comprehensive, ensure to examine the following key areas:
1. Inspecting Toilets Before Buying
Toilets are overlooked during a home inspection, but they can reveal much about a house’s plumbing system. Start by flushing each toilet to ensure that it works properly. Listen for strange sounds like gurgling or dripping, which could indicate a problem. Pay attention to how long it takes for the toilet tank to refill. If the toilet takes too long or leaks around the base, it may need repairs or replacement.
2. Shower Plumbing Inspection
Turn on all the showers in the house to check the water pressure and temperature. Low pressure can be a sign of sediment buildup in the pipes, while inconsistent temperatures may indicate issues with the water heater. Check for any leaks around the showerhead or faucet, as well as the shower drain.
3. Faucets and Sinks Inspection
Faucets and sinks are commonly used fixtures, so any plumbing issues can cause daily inconveniences. During the faucets and sinks inspection, turn on every faucet in the house and check for leaks, low water pressure, or rust stains. Look under each sink for signs of water damage or mould, which could indicate long-standing leaks.
4. Kitchen Sink Plumbing Check
The kitchen sink is a high-use area, ensuring its plumbing is in top condition. Inspect the pipes under the sink for leaks or corrosion. Ensure the faucet functions properly, and test the water pressure. Conduct a garbage disposal inspection if the home is equipped with one. Turn it on to ensure it runs smoothly without emitting strange noises. A malfunctioning garbage disposal can lead to kitchen clogs and unpleasant odours.
5. Sewer System Inspection
The most critical part of a home plumbing evaluation is the sewer system inspection. A failing sewer system can cause backups, foul odours, and health hazards. Look for signs of sewer problems like slow drains, unusual odours from sinks, or standing water in the yard. Consider hiring a professional plumber to inspect a sewer camera to identify blockage or tree root intrusion that could lead to costly repairs later on.
· Additional Tips for a Comprehensive Plumbing Inspection
In addition to the abovementioned areas, inspect other essential plumbing fixtures and systems in the home.
1. Water Heater
The water heater is a vital part of the home’s plumbing system, providing hot water for showers, laundry, and dishwashing. Check the age of the unit, as older water heaters may be inefficient and require replacement soon. You’ll also want to ensure it is appropriately sized to meet the household needs.
2. Exterior Plumbing
Don’t forget to inspect the plumbing outside the house. Check the outdoor faucets for leaks and ensure the drainage system around the home is working correctly. Water pooling near the foundation could indicate poor drainage, which can lead to serious structural problems.
3. Pipe Material
Knowing the type of material used for the plumbing pipes is also important. Older homes may have pipes made from galvanised steel, which can rust over time. Newer homes use more durable materials like copper or PVC. If you’re unsure about the type or condition of the pipes, ask the seller for details or consult a professional plumber.
· When to Hire a Professional Plumber
While the buyer can conduct many aspects of a plumbing inspection, it’s always a good idea to enlist the help of a professional plumber for a more in-depth evaluation. A licensed plumber will have the tools and expertise to identify issues you might overlook, like hidden leaks, poor water pressure, or sewer line problems. For residents in Epping, professional plumbing in Epping provides expert solutions, including thorough home plumbing inspections to ensure your new home is in excellent condition.
· Conclusion
Conducting a comprehensive plumbing inspection before buying a home is essential to ensure the plumbing system is functional. New home buyers should inspect toilets before buying, evaluate showers, sinks, and faucets, and perform a kitchen sink plumbing check and garbage disposal inspection. Inspecting sewer systems and reviewing the water heater, pipe material, and exterior plumbing will also help. Additionally, don’t forget to seek professional help to make an informed decision.
