Five plumbing items to check when buying a property

Buying a new home is the biggest investment most people ever make. It’s important to remember that you need to purchase based on what your head tells you, as well as what your heart has to say. There are plenty of house buyer guides online. But, what about one particular concern that is often overlooked?

It’s common for people to admire a new shower unit, or modern kitchen appliances, when they are buying a new home. But many people neglect to take notice of the basics, such as considering items of plumbing that could become a major concern.

The main shut off valve

If you ever have a leak or burst in your new home, you need to be able to shut the water off as soon as possible. This is why you should always check the location of the main shut off valve when you purchase a new property. You should also check that the valve is working as it should. It’s always best to be prepared for any problems, and this is part of doing just that.

It’s also worth speaking to an expert such as Plumbing Detectives when you first move in. You can ask them to carry out an inspection for you. You can also keep their details to hand, so that you have someone to call should an emergency occur.

The fitting of water pipes

It’s always a good idea to check the water pipes in a property before you buy. They could be showing signs of rust, or have cracks in them. They may also have been badly fitted in the first place. This can cause problems with water pressure and may also lead to leaks or bursts.

The condition of sewer pipes

Repairing or replacing a sewer pipe is expensive. Sewer problems can also lead to you having a backyard full of sewage. This is something you do not want to experience. Sewer pipes become degraded over time, so you should always check on the situation regarding these pipes, before you buy a property.

Is the toilet leaking?

You may be able to tell if there are problems with a toilet, by simply flushing it, and seeing if it continues to run. Many problems can be solved fairly easily, but issues should still be mentioned when you are thinking of making a house purchase. You should also check for any leaks around the base of a toilet, which could have an adverse effect on the structure of the property, over time.

How old is the water heater?

Most water heaters have a lifespan of around ten years. If the water heater in the home you are buying is approaching this age, there is a good chance that you will start to experience problems. You may want to ask the current owners to address the problem before you buy, or negotiate an amendment to the purchase price.

All of these plumbing concerns can cause potential problems. This is why it’s so important to pay attention to them when you are buying a property.