Searching for a house can be a daunting if not exhausting task. You have to dedicate your time and effort in choosing the one that’s perfect for you and your family. Apart from that, you have to make sure that everything is in good shape.
Of all the features that require assessment, the house’s plumbing should be on top of the list. When you are planning to buy an apartment unit, sometimes real estate commercial plumbing services are already included in the annual dues. Remember to confirm this one with your agent. If it’s the opposite case, you still need to consult a licensed plumber to guarantee the value of your new home.
Plumbing issues come in different sizes; this may be a clogged drain or a blocked toilet. If left unchecked, these concerns may get worse over time. For that matter, you may want to consider the following:
Inspect the Toilet
If you are still in the selection phase, you will be wise to check all the plumbing fixtures, and that includes the toilet. Check if the loo is in good condition. Follow this simple homeowner inspection guide if you want to conduct the inspection yourself:
- There are no leakages at the base.
- Look for cracks in the tank.
- The toilet does not wobble even if you apply your whole weight to it.
- The toilet is not clogged.
- The cistern is in good condition.
In case you see any of these concerns, ask a licensed expert to help determine if any of these are repairable. With years of experience under their belt, plumbers are knowledgeable in determining and repairing such issues.
Check the Sewer Line
There are instances when you are just taken away by the view of the countryside from the porch that you forget about major plumbing issues in your new house. Problematic sewer pipes may lead to irreparable plumbing concerns in the future. With that in mind, have a plumber inspect the line by running a video camera through it. Sewer lines are susceptible to several concerns, such as tree root infestation, cracks, or blockages.
Make Sure the Water Heater Works
The water heater is one of the most important plumbing fixtures in your home. You may not be able to perform simple everyday chores without this equipment. In that case, see if the unit is still in working condition.
Additionally, determine if a water heater has not exceeded its lifecycle. Check the upper portion of the tank and look for the manufacturer label. Generally, you can find the date of installation on the sticker. You may also use the serial number to verify the age of the heater.
Examine the Water Pipelines
The last thing that you will want from your new house is a burst pipe which can just be too much to handle for several homeowners. To avoid this hassle, make sure that you check the lines. Moreover, watch out for signs of wear and rust.
You will know right away if the previous homeowner did not replace any of the original pipes by its appearance. Replacement pipes are typically made of copper or plastic because these materials are highly resistant to corrosion. Beware of the ones made from cast iron, polybutylene, and galvanized steel because these are probably outdated and need replacing.
What to Consider When Looking for a Plumber?
Should you need general plumbing services to examine the sewer line in your newly bought house, for instance, there are certain factors that you need to take note. One is the reputation and experience of a potential plumber. Another is credentials, response time, and the level of professionalism. While most people are aware of such criteria, there are other essential things that you should put in mind; and these are the following:
Verify the Total Cost
Often, homeowners get confused with estimated costs. This matter stems from the fact that some plumbers prefer to give estimated cost over the phone. To avoid cases of miscommunication, have the plumber examine the plumbing problem in person before you ask for the estimate.
Moreover, verify what services covered in the estimated cost. The total cost will be significantly different because most estimates only comprise the labour fee and the materials used. Apart from that, you’ll be wise to confirm the contingency fees, should there be any.
Pay Upfront Vs Pay Later
When it comes to payment, ask the plumber when you should pay him/her. Often, some plumbers prefer the pre-pay system, while others the milestone payments. Alternatively, if the job will not take that long, you may give the payment after the completion of the task.
On a different note, you should not pay full upfront. That is even if some plumbers may request for money in advance. Pay them partially, especially if there’s a need for plumbing materials and other supplies.
