As a prospective home buyer, there are several things that you should inspect before you agree to buy a home. In addition to superficial characteristics, you should also need to inspect the heating, electrical work, insulation, and plumbing. Inspecting the plumbing is especially important because it is often the most difficult to repair. Here is how you should have the plumbing inspected before you commit to buying a home at the seller’s desired price.
Get a professional opinion
You should get a professional plumbing inspection if you are not clear about the plumbing issues that a home might have. Many new homeowners do not notice serious problems because of inexperience and not knowing what to look for. A professional plumbing inspection will be significantly cheaper than being faced with extensive repairs. When you receive a repair estimate, you can use it to negotiate with the seller to receive a discount on the home’s asking price to cover the costs of the repairs.
Sewer camera inspections
It is a good idea to ask for a sewer camera inspection of the storm sewer before you buy a house. If you are looking at a home in a mature neighborhood with large trees, this is especially important. Tree roots can breach sewer pipes to access the water inside. A sewer camera inspection will allow you to see if the sewer lines have been invaded with tree roots. If you purchase a home with tree roots in the sewer lines, sewage can seep into your yard during rainstorms.
If the plumber finds tree roots in the sewer pipes, you can ask for an estimate for a hydro jet of the line and a maintenance plan to control the root growth in the future. Newer homes might have different sewer line problems. For example, the foundations of new homes are often backfilled. The site crew may add new backfill and push the remains around the home. As the ground settles, the sewer line can shear off from the foundation wall. This problem can continue for years without causing a catastrophic backup, but it will eventually happen. A sewer camera inspection can help you to save substantial sums of money in the long-term.
Inspect the water meter and valves
To check the water meter, turn off the water to each fixture in the house. If the meter continues to turn, there is a leak somewhere. Next, check the valves. While the water is turned off to the house, the faucets in the house should not have water. If all of the shut-off valves and their faucets function properly, it is a good sign.
Inspect the water heater
Water heaters in the home should be inspected for indications of corrosion. Corrosion can cause serious damage. You should also keep in mind that water heaters last around 10-12 years from gas units and 12-15 out of electric, depending on the water quality, the frequency of use, and the maintenance.
Inspect the faucets, toilets, and sinks
The faucets and sinks in the house should be thoroughly inspected. There should be no leaks or drips, and they should be fully functional. Check the water flow. Turn the faucets on to the maximum flow and check to see if the water goes down easily or if it drains slowly. You should likewise check the toilets. When they are flushed, all of the water should drain. Slow-draining sinks and toilets mean that they have clogs.
Inspect the septic system
If the home has a septic tank instead of being hooked up to the city’s sewer system, you need to make certain that the septic system is functioning correctly. Standing water and foul odors are clear signs of seepage. Seepage must be immediately addressed to prevent health hazards and other complications. Repairing this type of problem should be the responsibility of the seller.
A plumbing inspection should be thorough. Hiring a professional plumber to inspect the plumbing of a home that you are thinking about buying can help to save you thousands of repair costs in the future. When you are preparing to purchase a home, a plumbing inspection can serve as a negotiating tool and ensure that you understand exactly what you are getting into if you move forward with the purchase.
J.W. Freeman Plumbing – Local Plumbers Near You | 4637 NW 6th St | Gainesville, FL 32609 | (352) 316-3229 | Map & Directions | FB | TW
