If you are currently in search of your next home, congratulations on embarking on the journey of purchasing a house! Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or have prior experience, there are many important factors to consider and steps to follow before finalizing a sale. But don’t forget that while you are touring potential homes, it is crucial to pay attention to the plumbing system as well! Unexpected plumbing expenses can be financially burdensome and cause significant inconveniences. So, knowing what you are getting into beforehand is essential to clearly understand the situation before making any decisions. Fortunately, our team of experts at Cincinnati Plumbing & Drain has compiled a list of five red flags to be mindful of when visiting potential homes.
Red Flag Number 1: The Age of the Water Heater
If information about the water heater is not available in the house listing, you may inquire about its age during the walk-through. If this does not yield the desired information, you can perform a quick visual inspection to obtain a rough estimate of its age and condition. Dust or corrosion may suggest an older unit or inadequate maintenance. Additionally, water puddles at the unit’s base could indicate an underlying issue with the water heater.
A good thing to be aware of is that water heaters typically have a lifespan of approximately 8-12 years. If you are considering purchasing a house with a water heater around this age, it is important to be prepared for the possibility of replacement in the near future. While this is not considered a significant concern, it is still advisable to keep it in mind, as incurring this additional expense shortly after moving in is typically not ideal for anyone.
Red Flag Number 2: The Water Pressure
During a house walk-through, it is crucial to assess the water pressure. Low water pressure can be quite troublesome. For this reason, as a precautionary measure, it is recommended to run the water for a few minutes in each shower or sink as you tour the home to detect any potential problems related to low water pressure. Poor water pressure likely won’t be a deal breaker for you, but it is a good thing to know about ahead of time.
Red Flag Number 3: The Drains & Water Lines
While examining the water pressure, go ahead and inspect the visible drains and water lines, too. You should thoroughly examine each drain for any indications of rust buildup. Although uncommon, the presence of rust can indicate a significant issue that requires prompt resolution. Additionally, while the water is still running, carefully examine all exposed water lines beneath the kitchen and bathroom sinks. You’re looking for any stains or leaks, ensuring that there are no signs of dripping water.
Red Flag Number 4: Water Damage
Repairing water damage can be a costly and challenging endeavor. So, try to keep an eye out for indications of such damage. Because water damage may manifest in various ways, here are some recommendations on effectively detecting and identifying it.
- Examine the toilet bases for indications of pooling or puddles. If you find pooling or puddles around a toilet, this likely indicates an underlying issue. You should also look around the surrounding area to see if there is water damage. (i.e., Check the walls, cabinet bases, and baseboards.)
- Inspect the ceilings in each room of the house for any signs of water stains, as they may suggest past leaks from the pipes or roof.
- Check out the basement and crawlspaces for water stains and leaks. If any leaks have gone undetected, they will be in the basement area, as many people use this area for storage, etc. So, be sure to keep your eyes peeled.
Red Flag Number 5: The Home’s Plumbing Records
Now, suppose you have walked through the home and are impressed and want to move forward with the process. Congrats on finding “the one”! As you work with your and the seller’s realtor, don’t be afraid to ask for the plumbing system’s maintenance and repair records. Maintenance and repair records can prove to be valuable in the future. Additionally, the absence of maintenance records or documentation of multiple repairs to a specific area is another red flag you should be aware of.
The Solution: A Plumbing Inspection
When purchasing a house, ensuring peace of mind is crucial. Fortunately, we have a solution! We offer a comprehensive plumbing inspection service to instill confidence before making a significant commitment. Should you choose to proceed with the purchase, including this service in the sale terms can be negotiated. (If the inspection is conducted prior to the completion of the sale, the responsibility of arranging it falls upon the seller.)
Although it may seem unnecessary, our licensed plumbers will thoroughly inspect all plumbing equipment, pipes, and drainage systems to ensure proper functioning. Additionally, they will assess critical plumbing areas and equipment to ensure optimal performance. This will provide you with the added assurance you need in order to make an informed decision about whether this home is suitable for your family or if it’s time to move on and continue your search. Moreover, based on the inspection results, it could provide a stronger negotiating position that is most advantageous to you.
Are you looking for a dependable plumbing company you can call your own? We’re available, and we would be ecstatic to serve you! Call Cincinnati Plumbing & Drain today at (513) 463 – 6947 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
