A Plumbing Checklist for New Home Buyers

You’ve found your dream home that ticks all the boxes and you’re eager to sign the contract and close the sale. Whether it’s your first home or you’re planning to move house, there are several things you should check before sealing the deal. As much as you should know the foundations are sturdy, for example, you also need to know that the plumbing in your new home is in good working order.

There are several easy ways for a prospective homebuyer to ensure all is well with the plumbing system. Some people may also enlist the help of a professional for a thorough inspection. While some issues may simply mean budgeting a bit extra for repairs, others might be a reason to find a different place to live. Work through this new home plumbing checklist before confirming your moving date.

Make Sure Shut-Off Valves Work

It’s vital that all shut-off valves work properly to isolate certain areas if needed. You should also ensure that the main shut-off valve functions correctly; you don’t want to face a serious plumbing problem in the future and be unable to turn off the supply.

Look for Water Marks

Water stains could indicate a leak from the plumbing system. Always check the reason for any discoloration caused by water. You should also ensure there’s no mold or mildew, as these generally indicate a problem with damp, which could be caused by water leaks.  

Particular areas to pay attention to include walls and floors around dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators, toilets, shower cubicles and bathtubs. If the home has more than one level, look at the ceilings underneath bathrooms and laundry rooms to make sure there are no stains.

Feel the Flooring

Floors around fixtures should be firm with no soft or spongy areas. You can generally notice any issues when walking across a particular section of floor.

Go into the Basement

Don’t neglect checking basements and crawl spaces for any evidence of water leaks or damaged piping.    

Check for Drips

Make sure that there are no drips coming from pipes or taps and be sure to check underneath sinks.

Ask about the Pipes

Ask how old the pipes are and if they have had any recent repairs. It’s also important to know what material the pipes are made from, as certain materials need regular replacement.

If an old home has lead pipes it’s almost certainly better to avoid living there as lead piping is toxic. Older homes may have galvanized piping, which should be replaced around every 30 years.

Find out the size of pipes too, as smaller pipes can affect water pressure.  

Inquire about the Water Heater

Ask about the age of the water heater and the date it was last serviced. If the property is old, make sure that the water heater complies with modern regulations.

Visually check the water heater for any signs of rust or corrosion, and make sure there are no leaks. Strange noises from the water heater are also cause for concern.

Check the Meter

Make sure that the water meter is working correctly by turning off all water sources and watching the meter. If it moves, it could be an indication of a broken pipe or other fault in the plumbing system. Check there are no leaks around the meter too.

Flush Each Toilet

Go around the house and flush every toilet to check that they actually flush, drain correctly and don’t leak. Make sure that toilets drain quickly and fill correctly. There should be no sewer smells coming up through the toilets either. Check that toilets are securely fixed in place with no movement.

Find Out about Sewerage

Ask whether there is a main sewer line to a municipal waste system or whether the property has a septic tank. Follow up questions include when the main line was most recently serviced and when the septic tank was last emptied.

Have a Video Sewer Line Inspection

You’ll need a professional plumber to tick off this part of your checklist for plumbing. While not essential, it’s highly recommended that you check the sewer line for cracks, damage and other issues that you simply cannot see without a camera.  

Turn On Every Water Supply

Make your way around the house and check every water supply, including bathroom and kitchen sinks, showers, bathtubs and outdoor taps and hoses. Check each functions correctly with adequate pressure and no dripping when shut off. Make sure that both hot and cold supplies work.

You should also note the color of the water. Water should be clear and free from any debris.

Ensure that sinks are stable with no movement and that all fittings are secure.   

Check Drainage

As you check taps and other water supplies, check that water drains away as it should. Sluggish drainage often indicates a clog somewhere in the pipes, though it may also mean a repair is necessary. Sometimes, poor drainage is due to incorrect installation.

Look at the Garden

Make sure that there are no patches of lawn that are particularly flourishing as compared with surrounding plants and grass. Lush patches that are especially green or areas of extra growth could indicate a sewer leak; sewerage provides additional nutrients for foliage.

Also make sure that no cracked paving or tiling is caused by a water or sewer leak.

Inspect Downspouts and Rain Drains

Ensure that leaves, litter or other debris aren’t creating blockages in the rain drainage system, and that large tree roots aren’t obstructing the flow.  

As you can see, running through a detailed new home plumbing checklist is essential before committing to buy a property.

Serving Kelowna, West Kelowna and surrounding areas, Living Water offers professional plumbing and gas-fitting services. They offer 24-hour emergency callout service in addition to routine repairs and inspections, and service is efficient, punctual, professional and trustworthy. Work is completed to a high quality using modern equipment and prices are competitive with financing options available.  

Whether you want to arrange a video sewer line inspection, want a professional opinion on plumbing in a new home or need to arrange repairs or maintenance, contact Living Water.