Are you thinking of moving? Looking around at properties but worried about this state of the plumbing system, then ask DDWILSON; we have compiled the blog to help you when you've finally found the house of your dreams. There's enough room for your family to grow, and the neighbourhood is idyllic.
However, there is one thing that the sellers are trying to hide from you. The property comes together with a significant plumbing problem. Fixing it costs a small fortune, and the sellers would rather keep this as a dark secret until they sell the house. Unfortunately, plumbing issues can't be discovered during a casual inspection. Before making the purchase, a homebuyer has to make sure that there's nothing wrong with the plumbing system.
Things to find out about your boiler when buying a new house.
Location Of The Boiler when Buying A New Home
You should ensure to ask about the location of the boiler as well as the stop cock and water tank when you are considering buying a new home. It helps you know what next to do in case anything goes wrong or an emergency.
Type Of Boiler
Due to the fact, there are different types of boilers, it is advisable to know the kind of boiler you would be dealing with. We have the boilers for a system, condensing and combi, so be sure to ask the owner or agent.
The Types Of Boilers Include
Gas combi boilers: this provides both hot water and heating. It is considered the most efficient and expected in the UK.
The electric boilers
The immersion heaters.
System boilers: These boilers usually come with water cylinders in an airing cupboard; therefore, you have no requirements for a water tank. It allows you to get hot water from different taps. The only disadvantage is your water won't be instantly hot.
Regular boiler: This usually has water and a cylinder tank. Hot water can run out, and you must wait for a reheating. It is appropriate for a big house as it simultaneously lets hot water come out from various taps.
Flow boiler converts gas into electricity and is a lot more expensive. It costs much more than using gas to heat your water instead of converting it to electricity.
The Make And Model Of The Boiler
Be sure to ask your seller the model and make of the boiler, and even offer to look at it yourself. This information comes in handy when buying boiler insurance.
The Condition And Age Of The Boiler
When buying a home, check the condition of the boiler. Look out for dampness, leaks, and dirt. The boiler would let you know of the situation it has always been in and how well it has been taken care of. Also, find out if you are using an old model, which should let you know it would be inefficient and pose a serious risk that could be detrimental to your health. If you decide to go ahead, you might spend a lot on a replacement shortly. Also, ensure to get carbon monoxide detectors to prevent complications.
Efficiency And How Often It's Been Serviced.
Modern boilers usually have an A rating on their label, so if the boiler in your home isn't energy-sufficient enough, you should consider getting an A-rated boiler model. It costs less, and you get to save a lot of money. Also, inquire when the boiler's new home was serviced, not just by anyone but by a Gas Safe registered engineer. The seller should be able to produce a gas certificate with the inspection history. It is usually in 2 places, either at the back of the instruction manual or on the sticker of the boiler.
Check The Warranty
When buying a new home, find out from the seller or owner if any warranty covers the boiler. It varies from boiler to boiler as it can be just two years, sometimes five years, or even more. If it is covered, get the details from the owner to avoid extra costs for the repair. Remember to get Home boiler insurance for your new home as well.
Toilets, Sinks & Faucets When Buying A New Home
How do you get a good idea about the general health of the house's plumbing system? The answer is pretty straightforward – by checking the taps and fixtures. You should:
Look around the toilet's water chamber and the base for leaks
Flush all toilets to check the drainage
Check for leaks below the sink and around the faucets
Turn on and off every tap in the house
Water Stains
A promising sign of leaky pipes is the presence of water stains on the ceiling or walls. Leaky pipes aren't expensive to fix, but repairing the damage they make can cost a fortune. While you're on the lookout for water stains, make sure to check for mould and mildew as well.
Primary Sewer Drain
It is essential if you want to buy an older house. Not only could the primary sewer drain be breaking down due to age, but there could also be tree roots growing into it. However, verifying the state of the sewer can be challenging. You'll probably have to hire a licensed plumber to conduct a camera inspection.
Water Meter
Another thing that helps detect hidden leaks in the system is inspecting the water meter. Turn off every tap in the house and look closely at the water meter. Is it still turning? If so, there are probably some hidden leaks in the plumbing system.
Shut-Off Valve
Another plumbing thing to check before buying a house is the shut-off valve. Close the valve fully, then try turning on taps throughout the house. The valve is probably faulty if the water gushes out or drips slowly. In addition to the primary shut-off valve, check any other valves, like the ones controlling the water flow to the shower or toilet.
Water Heater
Replacing this as an essential appliance after buying a new house can be a significant expense. Make sure to inspect the water heater and check closely:
Rust or corrosion on any part of the tank
Strange sounds in the tank
Any leaks at the outlet or inlet valves
Sandy or muddy fluids coming out of the hot water tap
The age of the appliance (most models typically have a 15-year shelf life)
Septic System
If the house is not using local sewerage but a septic system, you'll have to check if it works correctly. The best way to do this is by running a video camera through the system. The most common issues with septic tanks are related to broken septic pipes. These are installed close to the surface, which makes them vulnerable to corrosion and tree roots.
Water Pressure
Even though lousy water pressure can be solved with new taps or showerheads, you should check it out anyway. How to determine if there's sufficient water pressure in the house you want to buy? The easiest way to do this is to turn on the shower farthest away from the water source. If an upstairs shower works well, the rest of the fixtures probably work well, too.
Winterised Pipes
If you're buying a house in an area with severe weather, ensure it has a plumbing system that can handle such conditions. Are the pipes wrapped and insulated? If so, the house has winterised pipes. If the property uses well water, make sure the well is protected from extreme cold.
Water Hardness
Hard water can cause a lot of trouble. If left untreated, this issue can lead to scale buildup in the pipework, clogs, and low water pressure. Inspect the exterior of the fixtures. If you notice signs of scale buildup, ask for a reduced price. Buying a new home is a significant investment, so do it right. By checking the above mentioned things, you won't end up with a house that requires costly plumbing repairs.
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