Short Answer
Check for leaks, water pressure, and drain speed. Look under sinks, around toilets, and at the water heater for signs of leaks or corrosion. Check the age and condition of the water heater. Test water pressure by turning on multiple faucets at once. Flush toilets and check for slow drains. Look for signs of previous leaks, such as water stains on ceilings or walls. Consider a sewer scope inspection to check the main sewer line. Old galvanized or polybutylene pipes may need replacement.
Plumbing issues can be expensive and disruptive. Start with a visual inspection. Look under all sinks for signs of leaks, corrosion, or water damage. Check the visible pipes for type and condition. Common pipe materials include copper (good), PEX (good), galvanized steel (may need replacement in older homes), and polybutylene (problematic, used in the 1970s-1990s). Check the water heater. The average water heater lasts 8 to 12 years. Look for the manufacturing date on the label. Check for rust, leaks, and corrosion around the connections. Test water pressure by turning on a faucet and noting the flow. Low pressure can indicate a problem. Run water in multiple fixtures at once to check for pressure drops. Flush each toilet and check that it refills properly. Drain water in sinks and tubs to check for slow drains, which can indicate blockages. Look for water stains on ceilings, walls, and floors, which indicate past or current leaks. Consider a sewer scope inspection to check the main sewer line for blockages, cracks, or tree root intrusion. A plumber can provide a more thorough evaluation if needed.
Bob's Advice
Redfin Senior Agent · AI Certified Agent
Plumbing is one of those systems that can be expensive to fix, so it pays to be thorough. I have seen everything from a simple leaky faucet that cost $50 to fix to a failed main sewer line that cost $15,000 to replace. The age and type of pipes matter. If you are looking at an older home, especially one with galvanized or polybutylene pipes, factor the potential cost of replacement into your offer. A sewer scope is a small investment that can save you from a very unpleasant surprise. Let us include a thorough plumbing evaluation in your inspection period.
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