If you’ve currently embarked on the journey to buying your next home, congrats! Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned homebuyer, there are many important factors to consider and steps to take before finalizing a sale. As you tour potential homes, don’t forget to pay attention to the plumbing system! Before purchasing a home, it is important to be aware of potential plumbing issues, as they can be costly and inconvenient. And although not all red flags are considered “deal breakers,” there is great confidence in knowing exactly what you’re getting into beforehand. Fortunately, Gahanna Plumbing & Drain has compiled a list of 5 warning signs, or red flags as you may call them, to watch for when viewing potential properties.
RED FLAG 1: THE WATER HEATER IS OLDER
Most house listings will provide information on the water heater, but if the house listing specifies this info, you can give the unit a quick once-over to get a general idea. To determine the age and condition of the water heater, look for signs of dust, rust, or water at the base of the unit, as these can indicate things like poor upkeep, an aged unit, or problems with the water. If the water heater in the house you’re planning to buy is around 8-12 years old, you might have to consider replacing it soon, as this is the general lifespan of a well-maintained water heater. Though this is not something we consider to be a huge red flag, it is still something you want to be watchful for, nonetheless, as having to dish out this extra expense right after moving in is not ideal for anyone.
RED FLAG 2: THERE IS LOW WATER PRESSURE
Checking the water pressure is crucial during a house walk-through, yet it is often overlooked. Therefore, we recommend testing every faucet and shower to make sure there’s adequate water pressure throughout the house. Furthermore, we suggest turning on the water and letting it run for a few minutes to really get a feel for the water pressure in the home. Fixing low water pressure can turn into a costly repair job, so definitely keep an eye out for this red flag.
RED FLAG 3: THERE ARE DAMAGED DRAINS OR WATER LINES
The next step is to inspect visible drains and water lines, which complements the previous step. While checking the water pressure of sinks and showers, take a look at each drain to detect any rust buildup. Although it’s rare, rust buildup can lead to costly problems. Additionally, it’s important to examine all exposed water lines, such as those under your bathroom and kitchen sinks. Look for any discoloration or leaks, and keep an eye out for dripping water while running the faucet.
RED FLAG 4: THERE IS WATER DAMAGE
Water damage is yet another red flag, so it is important to be aware of the signs indicating its presence. Water damage can have different forms and reside in various areas, so knowing how to spot and understand them is essential. Here are some tips on how to identify water damage.
- Inspect the toilet bases in the house for any pooling or puddles, as these could be signs of a leak and water damage in the surrounding area.
- Check the ceilings in every room of the house for water stains. These stains could have been caused by leaks from pipes or the roof in the past.
- Examine the basement and crawlspaces for any signs of water stains or leaks.
RED FLAG 5: THERE ARE LITTLE TO NO MAINTENANCE RECORDS, OR THERE ARE EXCESSIVE REPAIRS
When considering buying a home, asking questions about the plumbing system is important. Even though it may seem inconvenient, it is necessary to understand the condition of the plumbing work. You can also request the plumbing maintenance records of the house to give you extra assurance. These records can be useful for future maintenance and repairs. Additionally, a lack of maintenance records or repeated repairs to a specific area may be a cause for concern.
WHY DO WE RECOMMEND A PLUMBING INSPECTION?
Buying a house is a huge commitment, and having peace of mind is essential. Our plumbing inspection service can give you the reassurance you need. If you decide to buy the house, you can request this service to be included in the terms. (This is something that the owner will have to arrange.)
Our licensed plumbers comprehensively inspect your plumbing equipment, pipes, and drainage systems to ensure they are functioning properly. They will also meticulously review other essential plumbing sections and equipment for optimal performance. This will help you determine if the home is suitable for your family or if you should keep searching for your dream home. Additionally, the inspection results could give you a point of leverage for negotiations, which is never bad as it could benefit you.
Are you looking for a dependable plumbing company? We are available and would love to serve you! Call Gahanna Plumbing & Drain today at (614) 245-2256, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!