Buying a home is exciting. Especially if it is your first home. It is easy to get caught up in the beautiful bay windows and crown molding. We forget to ask about the parts of the house we can’t see. Unfortunately, those are the important things that will need attention after escrow has closed. Remember to ask about these crucial plumbing items before you have crossed your t’s and dotted those i’s. Your home inspector should catch these, but it never hurts to double-check.

So ask what condition the sewer line is in. Typically, homes located in urban and suburban areas are connected to a city sewer line. Over time, these lines can be broken or damaged. Replacing or repairing a sewer line could end up costing thousands of dollars. It is best to find out about this ahead of time so you can work out repairs with the current owner.

So ask if there are any leaks in any of the fixtures. A toilet leak can be incredibly irritating. It could cause the toilet to continuously run and cost you your water bill. Even small, seemingly insignificant leaks could end up costing you big bucks if left unchecked. It is best to learn about these early and make your purchase of the home contingent on these being fixed.

A big one you will want to check into is the water heater. So water heaters can have a long shelf life if they are properly maintained. However, a poorly maintained water heater can be an expensive pain. Ask for maintenance records, how old the water heater is, and ask the inspector about its current condition. Replacing a water heater could cost you over a thousand dollars. In these cold climates, a poorly functioning water heater is crucial.

So remember, buying a home is a big and expensive step. Don’t feel nervous or finicky asking these questions. If you are spending thousands of your hard-earned dollars, you have every right to know the condition of the home you are buying. Be thorough, and if you need a second opinion on bids and costs, give us a call. Express Plumbing Heating & Air will help make sure your new home is in tip-top shape.

Express Plumbing Heating & Air

company icon