Homebuyer’s Plumbing Checklist: What to Inspect Before Buying a Home

Purchasing a new home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make. While it’s easy to focus on the kitchen layout or natural lighting, one of a property’s most critical—and often overlooked—aspects is its plumbing system. Undetected plumbing issues can result in thousands of dollars in repairs. That’s why NYC Plumbing Solutions 24/7 created this comprehensive homebuyer’s plumbing checklist to help you avoid unexpected headaches.

Why Plumbing Inspections Matter During a Home Purchase

Many plumbing issues aren’t visible during a casual walk-through. Leaks may be hidden behind walls, water pressure can seem fine until multiple fixtures are used at once, and aged pipes may be close to failure. A proper plumbing inspection can reveal:

• Potential water damage risks
• Outdated or dangerous plumbing materials
• Water heater issues
• Sewer line or drainage problems

Ignoring plumbing problems could mean facing significant costs shortly after you move in. A proactive inspection could save you thousands.

Complete Plumbing Checklist for Homebuyers

Use this checklist during your home tour or share it with your inspector.

Main Water Supply Line

• Locate the main shut-off valve; ensure it’s accessible and operable.
• Ask what material the main supply line is made of—lead and galvanized steel are outdated and should be replaced.
• Inspect the pipe where it enters the home for signs of corrosion or leaking.

Water Pressure & Flow

• Turn on multiple faucets simultaneously to test flow consistency.
• Flush toilets and use showers to observe pressure drops.
• Use a pressure gauge if possible. Normal household water pressure should be between 40 and 60 PSI.

Drainage System

• Observe how fast water drains from sinks, tubs, and showers.
• Listen for gurgling sounds, which could indicate venting or blockage issues.
• Check for any sewer-like odors in bathrooms, kitchens, or basements.

Pipes & Visible Plumbing

• Look under sinks, in basements, and utility rooms for signs of rust, condensation, or patched pipes.
• Note any irregular connections or non-uniform piping materials, which may indicate DIY repairs.

Water Heater

• Check the age of the water heater (expected lifespan is 8–12 years).
• Look for rust on the tank, water pooling nearby, or signs of corrosion on pipe connections.
• Ask when it was last serviced or flushed.

Toilets & Fixtures

• Ensure all toilets flush thoroughly and don’t run afterward.
• Test faucets and shower heads for steady flow and leaks.
• Make sure all handles, knobs, and shut-off valves are secure and working.

Sewer Line & Septic System

• Ask whether the home is connected to a city sewer or has a private septic system.
• For homes with older sewer lines, request a sewer camera inspection to check for roots, cracks, or blockages.
• If septic, request records of the last pump-out and inspection.

Water Quality & Safety

• Ask about any water filtration or softening systems in place.
• Consider a basic water test, especially if the home is older or in an area with known lead or mineral issues.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Here are some plumbing issues that should prompt immediate questions or further inspection:

• Stained ceilings or walls (could indicate hidden leaks)
• Persistently low water pressure
• Mold or mildew smells near plumbing fixtures
• Backflow issues or gurgling drains
• Mixed-use piping materials (e.g., copper connected to galvanized)
• Inaccessible or corroded shut-off valves

Questions to Ask the Seller or Agent

Always ask the following:

• When was the water heater installed?
• Has the property experienced any major leaks or water damage?
• Are there known issues with the plumbing system?
• When were the pipes and sewer line last inspected?
• Are all plumbing upgrades up to current code?

Should You Hire a Professional Plumber for Inspection?

While general home inspectors perform basic plumbing checks, a licensed plumber can:

• Conduct camera inspections of sewer lines
• Pressure-test supply lines
• Evaluate pipe condition and material type
• Detect hidden leaks and identify code violations

At NYC Plumbing Solutions 24/7, we offer thorough plumbing inspections for homebuyers throughout New York.

Plumbing Issues Common in Older New York Homes

Many New York homes—especially in boroughs like Brooklyn and Queens—were built before modern plumbing codes. Common issues include:

• Galvanized pipes that rust internally, reducing flow and increasing the risk of failure.
• Lead service lines pose health risks and must be replaced.
• Limited or no venting, causing slow drainage and gurgling.
• Improper drainage slopes lead to backups and slow flow.
• Sewer lines are invaded by tree roots in older neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion & Call to Action

A home’s plumbing system is its backbone. Don’t let hidden problems ruin what should be a dream home. Use this checklist to ask the right questions and ensure everything flows as it should.

Need help with a plumbing inspection before you buy? NYC Plumbing Solutions 24/7 provides detailed homebuyer evaluations, sewer camera inspections, and more. Call us at +1-332-233-7252 or request a plumbing service today.