See These Signs When Buying a New Home Call a Plumber or Run

A professional plumbing service in Norco, CA can look closer and determine what’s causing the issue. It might just be a simple fix, like a clogged aerator. But if it’s a sign of something bigger, like corroded pipes, you could pay thousands of dollars to fix it later.

Water Stains on Walls or Ceilings

When walking through a house, pay close attention to the walls and ceilings. Do you see any strange water stains or discoloration? Brown or yellow spots usually mean that water has leaked somewhere behind the walls.

Water stains indicate hidden leaks, leading to mold growth or structural damage. Call a plumber to inspect the plumbing system and ensure there isn’t a significant leak.

Unpleasant Smells

A home should smell clean and fresh. If you notice strange or foul smells from the sinks, drains, or toilets, this is a red flag. Bad Foul odors could mean a sewer backup, damaged pipes, or clogged drains. Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a dried-out p-trap, but other times, it’s much worse.

Sewer issues can quickly turn into an emergency plumbing situation, especially if waste backs up into the home. Don’t take any chances—call a plumbing service to check the pipes before you move in.

Slow Drains

Another easy way to test a home’s plumbing is to run water in the sinks, tubs, or showers and watch how quickly it drains. If the water sits for a while or drains very slowly, you’ve got a problem. Clogs can cause slow drains but might also point to deeper issues like tree roots in the sewer line or damaged pipes.

If this problem is ignored, it could lead to major repairs later. A licensed plumber can inspect the pipes using tools like a camera to determine what’s going on.

Unusually High Water Bills

Sometimes, the warning signs of plumbing trouble aren’t obvious. Ask the current homeowners about their water bills. If the water bills seem unusually high, it could mean hidden leaks in the system. Even small leaks add up over time and waste a lot of water.

An experienced plumbing service can perform a leak detection test to determine the source of the problem. It’s better to know now than to deal with skyrocketing water bills after you move in.

Rusty or Discolored Water

When you turn on the faucets, pay attention to the water's color. If it looks rusty brown or discolored, it could indicate corroded pipes.

Rusty water isn’t just unpleasant—it could also mean the home’s pipes are on their last legs. Replacing old pipes is a huge job that can cost money. Before you get stuck with that expense, have a plumber inspect the plumbing system.

Noisy Pipes

When you flush the toilet or run the sink, do you hear strange noises from the pipes? High water pressure, loose fittings, or trapped air might cause noisy pipes. While some noises can be fixed easily, others could be signs of more significant problems, like failing pipes or blockages.

Don't wait to call a plumber if the pipes sound ready to burst. Ignoring this issue can lead to emergency plumbing repairs later.

Old or Outdated Plumbing

Some older homes still have outdated plumbing systems of galvanized steel or cast iron. While these materials were common decades ago, they don’t last forever. Over time, they rust and corrode and can start to leak.

Before buying an older home, it’s essential to have a plumber inspect the pipes to determine their condition and material. Upgrading a plumbing system can be costly, so you want to know what you’re getting into.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing

Plumbing issues might not always be obvious when walking through a home, but they can lead to huge problems if not addressed. If you notice any of these signs, don’t be afraid to ask questions or call a professional plumbing service for an inspection. Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help you understand the condition of the home’s plumbing and what repairs might be needed.

It’s always better to catch plumbing problems early than to face an emergency plumbing disaster after you’ve moved in. If the red flags seem too big, it might be better to keep looking for a home that won’t drain your wallet and your patience.