Plumbing Checklist for New Home Buyers
September 18, 2014
If you are preparing to move into a new home, you obviously want to make sure the plumbing works as it should so you won’t have to deal with a lot of hassle after you sign on the bottom line. Nothing takes the luster off of a home purchase, of course, like a burst pipe two weeks after you move in. Check some plumbing basics and a plumbing checklist to make sure any issues are addressed before you make that commitment.
Sewer Lines
If the home if connected to the municipal water system, have a plumber check the lines with a camera to make sure there are no clogs or signs of corrosion. Look at the floor around the toilet and make sure it is in good shape, then check under the sink and around the toilet for signs of leaks such as water stains.
It is imperative that you have a sewer line inspection performed, especially if the home you are thinking of buying is 40 years or older. You’d be surprised how many people ignore these and other plumbing basics and wind up paying a staggering price as a result.
Water Lines
When looking at the water lines, a professional will check for the following:
- Leaks in the joints
- Leaks at shut-off valves
- Proper fittings if two different kinds of pipes, such as copper and galvanized, are connected
You should also run two faucets simultaneously to make sure that the home has the proper amount of water pressure as a part of your plumbing checklist.
Water Heater
It’s also important, of course, that you have the water heater checked to make sure it is working properly. A quality inspection will include:
- Making sure the pressure relief valve is working correctly
- Checking for any gurgling sounds, which will indicate an excessive accumulation of sediment in the tank
- Looking for proper ventilation
These are just some of the plumbing basics that need to be checked thoroughly before you agree to purchase a new home. Let the pros with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Dallas handle your plumbing installation so that you have peace of mind. Call us to schedule service for plumbing repair, drain cleaning or water filtration system.