If you are purchasing a new home or property, the pre-purchase checks and inspections are very important, and should include the plumbing. Functioning plumbing is essential for safety and health as well as the general practicality of the property. But what are the most important plumbing checks when buying a house? And do you need professional support?
What are the important plumbing checks when buying a house?
There are several important plumbing checks to perform before purchasing a new home and these include:
- Checking the water pressure
- Checking for leaks
- Checking the boiler
- Assessing the drainage system
- Getting professional help
Checking the Water Pressure
Water pressure can be an important factor for people who enjoy powerful showers and for homes with multiple bathrooms. But checking the water pressure is important for more than just comfort levels, as a low water pressure is a good indicator of a range of plumbing problems. This could include a leak or damage of clogs to the water supply line. As a result, before purchasing a property it’s important that you test the water pressure in the shower, sink, and bathtub, and check the toilet for adequate flushing power.
Checking for Leaks
Leaks in any property can cause a significant amount of damage not only to your possessions but to the structure of the property itself. These can be expensive to repair as well as time consuming and any repairs to structural work can be fairly invasive. As a result,checking for any leaking pipes or signs of leaks is essential before you purchase a property. Check the pipework, taps, sinks, toilets and showers, for any signs of leaks, and check under sinks and around the boiler for signs of water damage that may include mould or discolouration.
Inspecting the boiler
As a key part of any property’s heating system,the boiler should be checked before you purchase the property. No matter what type of boiler is installed, any pipework and connected tanks should be inspected for signs of rust or corrosion as well as leaks and damage. You should also check the temperature and pressure relief valve.This can help ensure that you won’t need to pay out for costly boiler repairs or replacements, and that you won’t be left without heating or hot water after you have moved in.
Assessing the drainage system
While the internal pipework and plumbing needs to be up to code, it’s important that the drainage is in good condition too. This involves checking that all gutters and downspouts are properly connected and directing water away from the foundation of the home, as they should be. You should also inspect the areas around the guttering for water damage and signs of decay.
Seek professional advice
If you are purchasing a property and have undertaken these checks yourself, you may want to get in touch with a professional domestic plumbing team to ensure that nothing has been missed, and that evidence can be provided of the problems and issues found, and the necessary repairs and upgrades. Here at KAM we have the skills and expertise to resolve all of your domestic plumbing problems. From leaky taps to new installations, and even clearing blockages, we have the equipment and knowledge to resolve any issue. Why not get in touch today to find out more?