Buying property is a major investment, and you want to make sure that you know what you’re paying for. A pre-purchase plumbing inspection will highlight whether there are any major problems in need of repair or replacement in the property, giving you the chance to negotiate the price or back out of the deal if you need to.
In this article, we’re explaining the importance of getting a plumbing inspection and discussing what a plumber does when they visit your potential new property.
When you inspect a home you’re thinking of buying, you may notice some of the signs of existing plumbing problems. Look out for:
There are simple signs that something is wrong with the plumbing in the house. The problem may only need a simple fix; however, it could mean there are major repairs that need to be done before anyone can move in.
Serious plumbing issues can cost hundreds, and sometimes thousands, of dollars, so a pre-purchase plumbing inspection is your safest and most cost-effective bet.
Your plumber has the tools and experience to discover the severity of the home’s plumbing problem before you choose to go ahead with the purchase. First, we will check the water heater for leaks and signs of age. They generally last for 10 years before they need to be replaced but, if they are inefficient, they may cost you more to run in the long term. Your plumber will discuss the state of your water heater with you and give you advice.
We then search for visible and hidden leaks around the property, especially in places that you can’t see for yourself. Experienced plumbers know how to recognise leaks and work out how severe the problem is. Leaks can be extremely expensive to repair, so you’ll want to know if the property has these destructive problems.
Many older homes still have their original lead pipes in place. These can be dangerous to your health and to your family, so you’ll want to get them replaced as soon as possible. Your plumber will be able to tell you the costs of replacing lead pipes.
Next, we will use our CCTV technology to detect hidden problems that require more than a plunger to fix, such as blockages caused by tree roots. These can be some of the most expensive issues to rectify in the future. We will also check the shut-off valves, ensuring they work properly.
Understanding the state of a property before you purchase will allow for additional negotiation and a better buying price. You’ll also gain valuable insight into how the current owner has been maintaining the property. Engaging one of our plumbers means you receive the relevant documentation needed to rent the property out to tenants.
When you choose to have a pre-purchase plumbing inspection, you’ll want experienced plumbers available in your area. To book an inspection in Brisbane or Canberra contact us via phone or online today.