Plumbing is considered a major system within a home, your Seven Stars Home Advisors inspector will examine faucets, showers, sinks and tubs to make sure all receive water and get rid of waste effectively. Your inspector will also describe for you what kind of piping is used in your house from the inlet to the supply piping that serves your ice maker. There are some materials that have been used for plumbing that have some inherent problems and your inspector will be able to determine those and find any potential issues that may have derived from them. Your inspector will examine leaks as well and determine if it is normal or a potential problem. Obviously, leaking water is a problem no matter where it is, but what we are referring to is if there is a pipe in the basement that has a leak in it, that is far more serious than the powder bath sink that drips twice an hour. Both will be in the report but your inspector will be able to inform you of the importance of repairs in each.
There are several major types of piping: galvanized steel, copper or polybutylene plumbing – a kind of plastic piping linked with copper or aluminum fittings. Copper is among the most reliable and long-lasting plumbing material, and galvanized steel among the most challenging, especially if it is an older installation. Galvanized steel will rust from the inside out. This causes a multitude of issues which can be determined by your inspector. Polybutylene plumbing, which was installed between the 1970s and 1990s, has been found defective and buyers would be advised to research whether the seller will replace it or if they will qualify for funding available through class action lawsuit settlements to replace it.
Replacing distribution pipes can be very pricey, however making sure that the pipes that pass water and waste through your house are in good working order can save considerable money elsewhere. Plumbing issues are generally the main cause of water, mold and mildew damage in most homes. A good home inspection can prevent thousands of dollars in damage or repair.
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