Red flags for plumbing installations to consider when buying a new home

 

Stuttering tap

If your tap stutters when you turn it on, it's most likely due to air in the pipes. If this only happens every now and then, it's usually fine, but if it's persistent, it could be an indication of something more serious. For example, a sputtering tap can be a sign that your water heater is overheating.

Stains on walls and ceilings

A clear warning sign is stains on walls or ceilings. Stains are often the result of a leak, which could be from the roof or a leaking pipe, so it's important to find out the cause of the stain. If you are lucky, the stain could be from a previous problem that has since been fixed. 

Also look out for random stains with fresh or peeling paint - some homeowners quickly paint over a stain to hide it rather than remove it.

Weak water pressure

When inspecting a home, always turn on the taps to check the water pressure. If the water pressure is too low, it may be a sign of a problem with the plumbing. Low water pressure is often caused by blocked pipes. Debris such as sand, dirt and pollutants often enter the pipes when there is a break in a water pipe. It can also be caused by a leak in the water pipe, as water does not come out of the tap but can leak elsewhere.

Poor drainage

Poor drainage from sinks, bathtubs or backing up basement drains can be a sign of a cracked or rooted sewer pipe, resulting in a very expensive repair.

Leaks and drips

When viewing a potential home, always look for leaking pipes, plumbing and fixtures. Leaks and drips are not only a waste of water and money, but can also cause serious damage.

Many leaks go undetected for years, so the damage may already be done by the time you notice the leak. You should check the water pipe between the meter and the house for leaks. Also make sure that none of the taps or toilets are leaking.

Leaks are often the cause of water damage in a home, and if this damage is due to an unresolved maintenance problem, your homeowner's insurance will likely not cover it.

Mould and mildew

Watch out for mould, especially in basements and laundry rooms. If you find white or green colonies of mould, it could be a sign of excessive water, which can be caused by a variety of things, such as sump pump problems. Mould can also be caused by leaking pipes. Removing mould is a hassle in itself, but if you don't find out the cause of the mould, you're making your life even harder. Mould can cause various health problems such as constipation, throat irritation, coughing, eye irritation and skin irritation.

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