If you are currently searching for your next “home sweet home,” congratulations on starting the journey to buy a house! Whether it’s your first time down this road or you’re a seasoned homebuyer, it’s an exciting step. There are various crucial factors to consider and steps to follow before finalizing a sale. So we are here to remind you that it’s important to remember the plumbing system as you tour potential homes. Unexpected plumbing expenses can be very expensive and cause a lot of trouble. So, knowing what you’re getting into beforehand is essential. Luckily, your experts from Centerville Plumbing & Drain have made a list of 5 red flags you should look for when visiting prospective homes.
1. Is the Age of the Water Heater a Red Flag?
If the house listing doesn’t mention the water heater, you can ask about its age at your walk-through, and if that doesn’t get you the answer you need, a quick once-over should give you a rough idea of its age and condition. So, upon inspecting the unit, if you notice an abundance of dust or rust on the unit or even water at the base of the unit, it may suggest its age, poor upkeep, or underlying problems with the water. Water heaters usually last about 8-12 years, so if the unit’s age is around this timeframe, you may need to consider replacing it soon should you move forward with purchasing the house.
2. Is Poor Water Pressure a Red Flag?
During a house walk-through, it’s easy to overlook checking the water pressure. However, it’s essential to check, as fixing poor water pressure can be an unpleasant and costly experience. Testing every faucet and shower is recommended to ensure adequate water pressure throughout the house. Furthermore, we also recommend turning on the water and letting it run for a few minutes before leaving the room. This will help you identify if there are any issues with poor water pressure.
3. Are Damaged Drains & Water Lines a Red Flag?
The following step can work hand in hand with the previous one. Now, we need to focus on the visible drains and water lines. Simply look at each drain while you are checking the water pressure of sinks or showers and check for any rust accumulation. Finding this red flag is rare, but if you do find it, it can cause some trouble. Additionally, it’s important to examine all the exposed water lines, such as those under your sinks in the kitchen and bathroom. Look for any leaks or discoloration, and while the faucet is running, check for any signs of dripping water.
4. Is Water Damage a Red Flag?
Water damage can be costly and a pain to fix. To be vigilant about water damage, you need to know what signs to look out for. Water damage has various manifestations. Here are some tips on how to identify and recognize it.
- Check the toilet bases in the house for pooling or puddles. If you notice either of these, it may indicate a leak.
- Look at the ceilings in every house room for water stains, as they could be caused by past pipe or roof leaks.
- Inspect the basement and crawlspaces too. Look out for signs of water stains and leaks. Try not to overlook these areas, as water damage can occur in these spaces too.
5. Is a Lack of the Home’s Plumbing History a Red Flag?
Do not hesitate to ask questions about the plumbing system of a home you are considering purchasing. Even though it may seem bothersome, it is essential to know the condition of the plumbing. You can even ask for the plumbing maintenance records of the house as an extra means of reassurance. Maintenance and repair records could be beneficial for you in the future. On top of that, a lack of maintenance records or documentation showing multiple repairs to a particular area could be considered another warning sign.
A PLUMBING INSPECTION:
When you are making a big commitment, like buying a house, having peace of mind is priceless. Fortunately, we can provide you with a plumbing inspection service that can give you that much-needed reassurance. Homebuyers can usually negotiate this service into the terms if they decide to move forward with the house, and the inspection will need to be scheduled by the owner if it is done before the sale is complete.
Although you may think it is unnecessary, our licensed plumbers will thoroughly evaluate and inspect the plumbing equipment, pipes, and drainage systems to ensure everything is in order. Additionally, they will thoroughly examine various important plumbing areas and equipment to ensure optimal functionality. This will provide you the assurance you need to confidently decide if this home is suitable for your family or if this is your final sign to move on and continue your search for your next dream home. Furthermore, based on the inspection results, it can potentially provide a negotiating point to your advantage.
Looking for a dependable plumbing company? We’re available, and we would love to serve you! Call Centerville Plumbing & Drain today at (937) 240-0169, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
