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The Plumbing Inspection Checklist for Newly Purchased Homes

Plumbing Inspection Checklist

Oh, the thrill of a new home. There’s more square footage than you had before, a room for your hobbies, a room for your junk, and an extra bathroom for the morning rush.

But are you sure about the plumbing? Even brand-new homes can have plumbing problems if pipes are installed shoddily, and any home over 30 years old (although it may be “new” to you) will often have plumbing issues due to aging.

  • Plumbing issues can be sneaky. They hide behind walls and under floors; sometimes, they don’t show up until you’re knee-deep in water.
  • Plumbing repairs can drain your wallet fast. Most home warranties don’t cover pre-existing plumbing problems.
  • Leaky pipes or faulty plumbing fixtures can cause major water damage and mold growth or structural issues later.
  • A solid plumbing system boosts your home’s resale value. No one wants to buy a home with plumbing nightmares lurking in the pipes.

So, keep reading for your peace of mind, financial health, and sanity, Pilgrim!

The Plumbing Inspection Checklist

1. Check the Water Meter

Locate and inspect the water meter — the canary in the coal mine.

  • Why? A water meter measures your use and can tell you if there’s a hidden leak.
  • How? Turn off all the water in the house. If the meter still moves, bingo! You’ve got a leak on your hands.

2. Inspect All Visible Pipes

Walk around the house and look for any exposed plumbing. This could be under sinks, in the basement, or even in the garage.

  • Look for corrosion, rust, cracks, and leaks. Pay special attention to joints and connections. You might be in trouble if the pipes look like they’ve been around since the Jurassic Age.

3. Test Water Pressure

Low water pressure is a nuisance and could be a sign of bigger problems, like clogged pipes or a faulty water heater.

  • Turn on faucets in multiple areas of the house. Check both hot and cold water settings. Is the water pressure consistent?
  • Bring along a water pressure gauge for accuracy. The ideal water pressure is between 40 and 60 psi.

4. Examine the Water Heater

  • Most water heaters last about 10–15 years. Check the manufacturing date, usually on a label on the unit itself.
  • Leaks around the base of the water heater are a red flag.
  • Set the temperature to around 120°F (49°C). Anything higher increases the risk of scalding.

5. Inspect Toilets for Leaks

A leaky toilet tank may seem minor, but it can waste thousands of gallons of water over time.

  • Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank and wait about 15 minutes without flushing. If the color shows up in the bowl, you have a leak.

6. Run All Faucets and Showers

Turn on every faucet and shower in the house to ensure they’re working correctly.

  • Look for leaks, inconsistent water flow, or water hammer (banging noise in the pipes).
  • Verify that all water drains quickly. If not, the system could be clogged.

7. Evaluate the Main Sewer Line

This is a biggie. A clogged or damaged sewer line can cause stinky and unsanitary backups. You don’t want that mess.

  • This is a job for professionals. A plumber can insert a camera into the sewer line to inspect for cracks, blockages, or root intrusion.

8. Inspect the Garbage Disposal

If the home has a garbage disposal, run it for a few minutes.

  • What to listen for any loud grinding, rattling, or unusual noises that could indicate a problem.
  • Drop some ice cubes into the blades to see if the disposal grinds them easily.

9.Check for Backflow Prevention

Backflow occurs when water flows backward into your clean water supply — yuck! Most homes have backflow preventers installed but don’t assume.

  • Check the main water supply line and any sprinkler systems.
  • Have a plumber test the backflow preventer and ensure it’s up to code.

10. Inspect Outdoor Plumbing

Don’t forget outdoor plumbing like hose bibs, sprinkler systems, and swimming pool equipment.

  • Turn on all exterior spigots. Look for leaks and ensure water flows freely.
  • Check for leaks or cracks in hoses and connections.
  • Test each zone of your sprinkler system for even water distribution and pressure.

Common Plumbing Problems in Newly Purchased Homes

  • Leaky pipes: Small leaks can lead to significant water bills and potential damage.
  • Clogged drains: Hair, grease, and debris can clog pipes and restrict drainage.
  • Old fixtures: Outdated faucets and toilets look bad and waste water.
  • Corroded pipes: Leaks, rust-colored water, and low water pressure are symptoms of corrosion.

FAQs: The Plumbing Inspection Checklist

Q: How often should I inspect my plumbing system?

Inspect your plumbing annually, even if you’ve just moved in. This will nip minor problems in the bud.

Q: Can I do a plumbing inspection myself?

Yes, you can, using this checklist. However, hiring a professional plumber for a thorough and accurate assessment is always a good idea, especially when buying a home.

Q: How much does a plumbing inspection cost?

A professional plumbing inspection may cost anywhere from $150 to $500, depending on the home’s size and the system’s complexity. It’s worth the investment to avoid expensive repairs later!

Q: What’s the most significant plumbing issue to watch for in a new home?

Sewer line problems are the most costly and unpleasant issues to deal with. Always have the sewer line inspected by a professional before finalizing your home purchase.

Q: What signs of plumbing issues should I be aware of?

These include persistent leaks, unusual noises such as banging or gurgling from pipes, slow drains, foul odors, and sudden water pressure or color changes. Early detection can prevent costly repairs and damage to your home.

Q: Can plumbing issues affect my home’s resale value?

Yes. Most potential buyers are unwilling to assume the risk of a house with problems. To make the property more attractive, keep your plumbing system up-to-date and functioning correctly.

Q: Is it necessary to worry about seasonal changes affecting my plumbing?

In colder climates, pipes risk freezing and bursting during the winter months. Insulating exposed pipes and ensuring consistent temperatures can prevent damage from seasonal changes.

Q: Should I replace old plumbing fixtures even if they’re functioning?

Replacing old plumbing fixtures can be beneficial, even if they still function. New fixtures are more efficient and improve the aesthetic appeal of your home. Upgrading can also prevent future leaks and failures as materials age and degrade.

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