Buying a new home is a huge, confusing, and difficult process, and it’s often hard to understand what to do next, much less why to do them! In this article, Legacy Mechanical Services will give you five reasons that a plumbing inspection isn’t just ideal, but a necessity before you buy a house.
The Home’s Main Sewer Line:
There are many reasons that a sewer line could be clogged, some of which are serious, some of which not so much. Often, the previous owners are not aware of the plumbing issues in their own home! If the issues causing clogged sewer lines are serious, it may need a full or partial replacement which is a very costly plumbing repair. A full plumbing inspection includes an investigation of the main sewer line to make sure that it is running smoothly and that there are no costly issues you will have to worry about later on down the road.
Pipe Leaks:
Another plumbing concern is leaking pipes, which can be a host of other major plumbing problems. It can lead to mold and mildew, water damage in the home, and pipe corrosion which could need replacing. Another thing to check during the plumbing inspection in older houses is for lead pipes which are known to be harmful to children and adults alike. Opting for an inspection can ensure that you are aware of any pipe issues before closing on the home.
Water Heaters:
If the water heater is old or in bad condition, it may also warrant a replacement—one which is very expensive. Checking this during your inspection will help you ensure your heater is running properly for the necessities your family needs. Additionally, Legacy Mechanical Services will check around the heater for evidence of leaks and water damage.
Toilets:
Common issue discovered during these inspections is leaks at the base of the toilet. If the flooring right around the toilet is discoloured or not firm, or if the toilet is not securely in place, it can mean that there is possibly some major floor damage lurking beneath. Often toilet leaks can cause major damage to flooring, and many homeowners don’t know how to take care of them and can cover them up and make the situation worse.
The Water Itself:
It’s also important to make sure that the water running in the home is clean and safe to use and drink. If you find that it’s discoloured, there can be a few reasons for that, ranging from insignificant to major issues. For example, it could be a temporary flow of dirty water or a long term problem such as old pipes that need replacing. A licensed and experienced plumber will help uncover the cause for water discolouration. This is known to happen often in Winnipeg, Manitoba and normally when the city is working on something that has to be repaired.
Remember, if your home has some plumbing issues, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy the home altogether. However, you now understand what you’re getting into, and this knowledge will help you make the decision if you want to continue with the home buying process. In the long run having a Plumbing inspection before purchasing your home will ultimately save you money and it will let you know if there are any major plumbing issues.