When buying a home, you typically have an inspector come to check out the homes’ construction and to point out any problems or potential problems, so why not have an inspection of the homes’ plumbing systems? Plumbing issues may seem small now but can end up being a major inconvenience and cost you thousands of dollars.
What’s included in a plumbing inspection?
A lot goes into the process, however during a plumbing inspection the plumbing technician will generally examine and test the following to ensure they are installed and working properly.
1. Pipe Leaks. Leaky pipes can be a common issue in homes and can lead to bigger problems such as mold, water damage, or pipe corrosion which could need replacing. Additionally leaky pipes can increase your water bill. If it is an older house the plumbing technician will also check for lead pipes which are dangerous for everyone in the home and would need replacing.
2. Water Heater. The water heater in your home is vital to your everyday life so it’s important to inspect all parts of it including the water valves and connections. They will inspect for signs of leaks, water damage, corrosion and check for any strange sounds coming from the unit. They can also help you determine the age of the unit and if it is big enough to meet your family’s needs. If the water heater does need repair or replacement, you may be able to get money knocked off the asking price or get it replaced before you move it.
3. The Water Itself. In whatever home you buy you want to make sure the water is clean and safe for you and your family. If the water is discolored, it could be caused from a temporary flow of dirty water or old pipes that need replacing.
4. Main Sewer Line. The plumbing technician will look for any clogs in your main sewer line and try to identify the cause of the clog. Clogs can be small issues or can be something bigger so it’s important to look for them to determine if a full or partial replacement is necessary, which can be costly.
5. Toilets. If the flooring around the toilet is discolored, soft or the toilet is not securely in place, it can be indicative of a leaky toilet. This could be a sign of major floor damage underneath which could lead to costly repairs.
6. Drain Issues. While you may think a clogged drain is no big deal and can be fixed with products from the grocery store, sometimes those products can harm your plumbing system further. Having a plumbing technician check can help to identify potentially bigger problems caused by tree roots intruding in the sewer line, poor installation, shifting ground or the material of the pipes.
7. Septic Tank. The plumbing technician can help you determine where your septic tank is located or if your waste goes to a municipal sewer system. If you do have a septic tank, they will perform an inspection to check for any issues, what pipes lead to it and when it was last serviced. A broken septic tank is a major issue with costly repairs.
8. Sump Pump. A sump pump is important to help your home avoid flooding and all the issues that come along with that. It is important to check the sump pump often so the plumber will look for any damage or visible clogs in and around the pump.
A plumbing technician can identify problems or potential problems in your home before you purchase it. Just because an issue is found doesn’t mean the home is not the right home for you, however it is important to be informed so you can make the best decision for you and your family. You don’t want to close on a home and a week later realize you are sitting on a major plumbing problem with could cost thousands of dollars and be a major headache for you.
Call HR Silicon Valley Plumbers today to set up a plumbing inspection in San Jose and surrounding areas.
