Plumbing issues can be expensive to repair and may require invasive structural work. It’s therefore critical to know whether any plumbing problems are present when you’re buying a home. Fortunately, the home inspection process will uncover the following plumbing issues so you can make an informed decision.  

Plumbing Issues That Can Be Found During a Home Inspection  

1. Leaks

Small leaks may go unnoticed for long periods of time. Yet, even minor ones can cause considerable water damage, including mold and rot. Inspectors look closely for stains, rot, and other signs of damage in drywall, wood panels, insulation, and other structural elements.   

2. Inadequate Pipes

Building codes require homes to have certain types of pipes for specific plumbing applications. For example, polybutylene piping is no longer legal for plumbing in the U.S. as of 2010 because it can become brittle when exposed to chlorine in public water supplies. During a home inspection, professionals examine the pipes throughout the house to ensure they’re made from an approved material, such as copper or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

3. Tree Root Damage

Sewer lines are buried underground, so tree roots can eventually grow into the lines and disrupt the water supply. While these issues can’t be detected during a walkthrough of the home, they can be identified during the video portion of a home inspection. Sewer line repair can be costly and may disrupt a home’s landscape, so it’s important to know the scope of necessary repairs prior to purchasing.

4. Damaged Fixtures 

Plumbing fixtures such as toilets, sinks, and showers may look fine on the surface. Upon closer inspection, signs of damage such as small cracks or improper installation may become apparent. When these issues are flagged during an inspection, sellers may have the opportunity to make repairs before you move in to ensure all fixtures are in proper working order. 

5. Cross-Connection

Cross-connections occur when water intended for household use gets contaminated by another source. For example, if a main water pipe breaks and other sources of water seep into it, the home’s main water supply could become tainted by contaminated water. Home inspectors look for connection issues by performing a thorough visual inspection of all plumbing components in and around the home.

If you’re purchasing a home on Oahu, turn to Inspect Hawaii in Honolulu for a thorough home inspection. These professionals use leading technology to perform in-depth assessments of houses, uncovering potential problems before they become larger issues. Find out more about their comprehensive services online, or schedule an inspection by calling (808) 728-5707.