The purchase of a home is most likely to be the largest single purchase that any person makes in their lifetime. As such, prudence requires that the buyer check out, whether personally or with a professional local plumber, all of the various mechanical systems of the house. Here’s a plumbing guide to help.

The plumbing system is one of the most important of these systems and should be thoroughly inspected by a knowledgeable technician. A thorough inspection of your plumbing system will include the following items and give the new homeowner a plumbing guide about what to ask for when negotiating the price of the home.

Plumbing Guide for Home Buyers:

• Examination of all toilets, showers and faucets to ensure proper functioning.
• A pressure test should also be performed to ensure that the system works as required.
• Inspection of all water related appliances including the dishwasher, washing machine and food disposal and heir associated connections. While this inspection may not guarantee that the appliance is in top condition, it will ensure that it is, at least, in serviceable shape.
• A thorough inspection of the hot water heater, its connections and the pipes that feed and draw from it. Water heaters have an expected lifespan of at least six years but improper maintenance and use can significantly shorten the appliance’s useful life.
• For houses with basements, an inspection of the sump pump system is recommended. Basements gain a significant quantity of water from everyday household activities mostly notably condensation. It is imperative that a method be provided to remove the accumulation of excess water.
• The last plumbing tip that a professional plumber can give to a new homeowner is to identify and inspect the main water shutoff.

The homeowner will undoubtedly need the information at some point in the future, it is far superior to have the information ahead of time and not when a crisis develops.