Buying a new house means verifying all of its features are in sound condition. Among your top features to inspect should be the plumbing system. Because plumbing is mostly hidden behind walls and under sinks and cupboards, it tends to be overlooked or under-assessed by first-time homebuyers. But faulty plumbing work can be hard to fix and costly, too. Your best bet for a thorough inspection is to hire a professional plumber. However, there are a few checks you can make on your own first.

Plumbing Checklist for First-Time Homebuyers

1. Check the Water Pressure

Make sure that each faucet turns on and off without issue, and check for water pressure as well. Sometimes the water flow in a new home is weak because the main valve isn’t fully open or the problem may be due to an obstruction that needs the attention of a plumber. 

2. Test the Flush of Each Toilet

If one or more of the toilets in the home doesn’t flush well, it could be for a number of reasons, including clogged piping, tank water levels set too low, or a problem with the fill valve. If the home you are buying is more than 10 years old, you may considering replacing with new water saving toilets.

3. Check the Showers & Their Temperature Gauge

A shower should have strong water pressure, and its temperature function should be working well. Water should instantly go down the shower drain without pooling. Find out from the seller when the water heater was installed. If it’s over 10 years old,  there’s a good chance it will need replacing in the near future.

4. Inspect Pipes for Leaks

Pay close attention to exposed pipes under the sink, on the building exterior, or in the basement for leaks. If no visible leaks are present, damp walls and mold buildup are a tell-tale sign that water may be leaking below the flooring or behind walls.

5. Make Sure the Plumbing System Is Up to Code

Older homes built in the early 20^th century tend to have outdated plumbing systems that may require a costly overhaul. Hire a licensed plumber to check that the home’s plumbing follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)—a model code governing the inspection and installation of plumbing systems to help safeguard the public’s health.

Before you sign the dotted line on your dream home, hire a plumber from Pelner-Williams Plumbing & Heating for a comprehensive assessment of your plumbing. The family-owned business serves the greater Wood County area. Call (715) 424-7800 for consultations; or, make an inquiry via their website.