Don’t Forget to Check These 4 Plumbing Fixtures Before Buying Your Next Home
Don’t Forget to Check These 4 Plumbing Fixtures Before Buying Your Next Home
Buying a new home is exciting — but if you overlook hidden plumbing problems, that excitement can quickly turn into expensive repairs, long wait times, and major stress.
Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you inspect these four critical plumbing fixtures. A quick check — ideally by a licensed plumber — can save you thousands of dollars and a mountain of headaches down the road.
💡 Why Pre-Purchase Plumbing Inspections Matter
Skipping a plumbing inspection might save a few dollars today, but it could cost you much more in:
- Wasted time waiting for emergency repairs
- Disruptions like not being able to shower or do laundry
- Out-of-pocket expenses for new toilets, water heaters, or sewer repairs
- Hidden water damage that ruins flooring, drywall, or foundation materials
- Exposure to unsafe water or contaminated supply lines
Before making one of the biggest investments of your life, it’s worth confirming that your new home’s plumbing is safe, efficient, and problem-free.
🛠 Check These 4 Plumbing Fixtures Before You Buy
1. 🚽 Toilets
Don’t assume flushing once means everything’s fine. Have a licensed plumber:
- Check for leaks or moisture around the base of the toilet
- Look for floor discoloration or softness, which can indicate long-term water damage
- Inspect the flush mechanism and seal for wear and tear
Even small leaks can lead to mold, flooring rot, or expensive repairs — all of which should be addressed before closing.
2. 🔥 Water Heater(s)
Ask the current owner:
- How old is the unit? (Water heaters typically last 8–12 years)
- When was it last serviced or replaced?
- What size and type is it? (Tank vs. tankless, gas vs. electric)
Have a plumber confirm that the unit is up to code, properly vented, and working efficiently. A failing water heater is a costly surprise you don’t want after move-in.
3. 🏠 Main Sewer Line
You might run water at the faucet or flush the toilet, but that won’t reveal blockages deeper in your system.
We strongly recommend a sewer camera inspection to detect:
- Tree root intrusion
- Pipe cracks or collapse
- Long-standing blockages
- Improper connections
These issues can lead to sewage backups, flooding, and costly excavation work. Catching them early could be a major contract negotiation point — or save you from buying the wrong home entirely.
4. 🧵 Pipes
Behind your walls and beneath your floors lies a hidden web of plumbing. Ask your home inspector or plumber to evaluate:
- The age and material of your pipes (e.g., copper, PEX, galvanized, lead)
- Any signs of previous patch jobs, corrosion, or leaks
- Whether pipes are properly insulated, especially in cold climates
Outdated or compromised pipes can affect water pressure, lead to leaks, or even pose health risks — particularly if lead is involved.
✅ Benefits of a Plumbing Inspection Before You Buy
A pre-purchase plumbing inspection can:
- Prevent unexpected repair bills
- Ensure your home is up to code
- Give you negotiating power with the seller
- Provide peace of mind that your family has safe, clean water
- Help avoid delays in move-in due to surprise plumbing emergencies
Get a Plumbing Pro on Your Side
From faulty toilets and outdated water heaters to hidden sewer issues, there’s a lot that can go wrong with a home’s plumbing — and most of it won’t be visible during a standard walkthrough. That’s where we come in.
At Quality Plumbing Services Inc., we offer pre-purchase inspections that give buyers confidence before they commit. Whether it’s a quick plumbing check or a full camera inspection, we’re here to help you move into your new home with clarity — not costly surprises.
📞 Call today to schedule your plumbing inspection.
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