Home inspection is a part of the process when buying or selling a house. Plumbing issues are among the most common problems that appear in home inspection reports. While many of these problems are minor, others are costly and require major replacements. Whatever side of the deal you are on, it is important to know about the common plumbing problems that get discovered during inspections.

Here are 5 common plumbing issues that homeowners commonly come across during plumbing inspections:

1. Clogged Sewer Lines

A clogged sewer line makes it difficult for the waste to leave your home. It can cause a water backup and subsequent leaks. Tree root intrusion is one of the most common causes of sewer line clogs. If you leave the problem unattended, it can create severe issues. For example, standing water can damage the flooring. Clogs caused by tree roots should always be handled by an experienced plumber.

2. Broken Pipes

Pipes can break due to various reasons. They can get accidentally crushed by vehicles or hit with a hammer used during DIY repairs. Using corrosive materials to flush out a clog can also weaken pipes. Aging is also a factor that makes pipes vulnerable to breaking. You can find broken pipes in both old and new homes.

3. Lead Pipes

Older homes, especially those built before 1960, can have lead pipes. These pipes are made of lead and have a zinc layer. The zinc can erode over time and the lead can leech into the water supply. Lead has various toxic effects and these pipes will need to be replaced.

4. Water Heater Problems

Some of the common water heater problems found during inspections are:

• Incorrect size unit
• Defective thermostats
• High water pressure
• Internal rusting
• Sediment build-up

Sometimes inspections can also detect leaking water heaters. If the problems are not fixed immediately, they can cause serious damage to the equipment as well as your property.

5. Leaking Pipes Behind Walls

Pipes are hidden behind walls in all homes. However, if these pipes are leaking, it can be a big issue. Even a minor leak has the potential to damage the drywall and flooring. It can also create mold and mildew problems in the house. Slow leaks are usually found in inspections because they are difficult to detect otherwise. It is recommended to get regular inspections to find such hidden plumbing issues.

6. Low Water Pressure

Low water pressure can be caused by various reasons. This includes:

• Corroded or clogged pipes
• Faulty pressure regulator
• Leaks
• Clogged fixtures

Low water pressure can make everyday tasks such as washing dishes and showering difficult. Professional plumbers can diagnose and address the underlying issues. Still, you should be wary of how severe the underlying problems are.

Worn seals in pipe joints commonly cause leaks in pipes and fixtures. When leaks are not fixed, they can damage the walls, ceilings, floors, and other structures and items in a house. 

Conclusion

While these are the common issues found during plumbing inspections, there are many more reasons why inspections can fail. This includes reasons like a lack of access panels for shower valves or bathtubs and shut-off valves for toilets or sinks. Additional reasons include incorrect drain slope, unsupported pipes, cross-connections between dirty and clean water, and improper or missing air gaps on dishwashers. The use of non-code materials is also a reason for failed inspections. 

If you are planning to sell your home, it is recommended to fix any plumbing issues to help increase your home’s resale value. If you want to purchase a house, make sure to get a home inspection. Homeowners are also recommended to have regular inspections to prevent plumbing issues from causing serious damage.

Seth Erhart