When Buying or Selling a Home, What Plumbing Issues Should You Pay Attention To?

You have made an offer on a home and an inspection has been done and all is well. Sometimes plumbers are called in to do a more thorough follow-up inspection. Unfortunately, this often happens after the home has been purchased. So here are a few things to ask.

1. Main Sewer Line

Drains clog for a reason which is not always obvious. It is strongly recommended that a professional plumber performs a camera inspection on the sewer line. If you're purchasing a home, this is doubly important. You can't be certain whether the home has had drainage problems and if the previous homeowner knew the reason for a clog.

Inspecting the line can find if the line is deteriorating and just being held together by the ground around them or if it could collapse during a major repair or replacement. A simple camera inspection could make you aware of a hidden and very costly problem prior to the purchase.

2. Water Heaters

The average water heater lasts about 10 years. Water heaters that heat your home, in addition to providing hot water for each of your faucets, tend to have shorter lives. Nearly all manufacturers can determine the age of a water heater from the model and serial number. A licensed plumber can determine whether it's up to current code and safely working.

If there is any corrosion or calcium build-up, evaluate and document the size of the heater and whether it meets the household demand. Consider whether it's the right time to upgrade to a tankless system that can deliver endless hot water at a lower monthly cost.

3. Water Pressure

Abnormal water pressure — either too high or too low — can indicate problems with the supply line, pressure regulator, or fixture supply lines. High pressure (over 80 PSI) can stress pipes and cause leaks over time. Low pressure may signal blockages, leaks, or supply issues.

4. Visible Pipe Condition

Check under sinks, in utility closets, and in the basement or crawlspace for signs of corrosion, mineral deposits, or improper repairs using tape, rubber patches, or compression fittings. These are signals of deferred maintenance and potentially more significant problems beneath the surface.

5. Fixture and Faucet Condition

While cosmetic issues are easy to overlook, check all faucets, toilets, and shower valves for drips, stiffness, or improper function. A dripping faucet may seem minor, but it often indicates worn internal parts and can waste significant water over time.