Don’t Buy That Home Until You Check for These Plumbing Problems

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. While home inspections cover a lot, plumbing problems often go unnoticed—until it’s too late. Leaks, corroded pipes, and sewer line issues can turn your dream home into a costly nightmare. Before you finalize your purchase, it’s crucial to check if you need plumbing repairs to avoid unexpected and expensive fixes after moving in.

Low Water Pressure: A Warning Sign of Bigger Issues

Turning on a faucet only to find a weak stream of water might seem like a small issue, but it could be a red flag. Low water pressure often points to corroded pipes, hidden leaks, or even a failing main water line. If multiple faucets have weak pressure, it’s worth having a professional plumber assess the problem before you buy the home.

Common causes of low water pressure include:

• Pipe corrosion or buildup inside old pipes
• Undetected leaks within the plumbing system
• Issues with the main water line

If the pressure problem is widespread, it may indicate that the entire plumbing system is deteriorating.

Slow Drains and Sewer Line Problems

A slow-draining sink or tub is annoying, but if multiple drains in the house are sluggish, you may be dealing with a bigger issue. Tree roots, pipe misalignment, or buildup in the main sewer line can cause major drainage problems.

Warning signs of a sewer line issue:

• Water backing up in sinks or tubs
• Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets
• Unpleasant sewage odors inside or outside the home

Sewer line repairs can be costly, so a professional video camera inspection is highly recommended before purchasing the property.

Old or Corroded Pipes Spell Trouble

If the home was built before the 1990s, it may have galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes, both of which are prone to corrosion and failure. Even homes with copper pipes can develop pinhole leaks over time.

Look for these signs of outdated plumbing:

• Discolored or rust-colored water from faucets
• Frequent leaks or burst pipes
• Visible corrosion on exposed plumbing

Replacing old pipes can be an expensive undertaking, making it essential to inspect the plumbing system before buying.

Water Stains and Mold Growth Indicate Hidden Leaks

Discoloration on walls or ceilings often signals past or active leaks. Even if a stain appears dry, moisture could still be trapped inside, leading to mold growth. Mold not only damages a home’s structure but can also pose serious health risks.

What to watch for:

• Musty odors in certain areas of the home
• Peeling or bubbling paint near plumbing fixtures
• Soft or warped drywall around sinks, tubs, or toilets

If you notice any of these signs, a professional leak detection test can determine whether there are hidden plumbing problems.

Running Toilets and Leaky Fixtures Waste Money

A toilet that won’t stop running or a faucet that drips constantly might not seem urgent, but these small leaks can significantly increase your water bill. If multiple fixtures have leaks, it could indicate underlying problems in the home’s plumbing system.

Signs of potential trouble:

• Toilets that don’t flush properly or keep running
• Faucets that drip even when fully closed
• Low water pressure when multiple fixtures are in use

A plumbing inspection can identify whether simple repairs are needed or if the water supply system requires a more extensive fix.

A Failing Water Heater Can Leave You Without Hot Water

Water heaters don’t last forever, and replacing one isn’t cheap. Before buying a home, find out the age and condition of the water heater. Most units last 10-15 years, but signs of trouble can appear earlier.

Warning signs of a failing water heater:

• Water takes too long to heat up
• Rust-colored water from hot taps
• Unusual noises like banging or rumbling
• Water pooling around the base of the heater

Replacing a water heater can cost thousands of dollars, so it’s crucial to assess its condition before purchasing the home.

Signs of a Main Water Line Problem Can’t Be Ignored

One of the most expensive plumbing repairs a homeowner can face involves the main water line. This pipe runs underground from the city’s water supply to the home, and if it fails, major excavation work may be required.

Signs of a failing main water line:

• Unexplained spikes in water bills
• Puddles or soggy patches in the yard
• Noticeable drop in water pressure throughout the home

If any of these issues are present, you may need plumbing repairs in Commerce City, CO, before finalizing your home purchase.

Case Study: A Homebuyer’s Plumbing Wake-Up Call

A Commerce City couple thought they had found their dream home. Everything seemed perfect—until they scheduled a plumbing inspection. What looked like a minor water stain turned out to be a hidden main water line leak, which had caused foundation damage beneath the property. The estimated repair cost? Over $12,000.

Thanks to the inspection, they were able to negotiate with the seller to cover the cost of repairs before closing. If they hadn’t checked, they would have been stuck with a massive bill just months after moving in.

Schedule a Plumbing Inspection Before Buying

At Fast Trak Plumbing and Drain, we specialize in thorough plumbing evaluations to ensure your new home is move-in ready. From video camera inspections to main line replacements, we provide expert solutions to protect your investment. We proudly serve the Colorado service area.   Need plumbing repairs in Commerce City CO? Contact our team today to schedule an inspection and avoid costly surprises.