So, you’re finally ready to buy a house. You’ve walked through what feels like a hundred showings, imagined where your couch would go, fallen in love with a kitchen backsplash or two, and now—you’re this close to signing the papers.
But before you commit to the biggest purchase of your life, there’s something you absolutely need to take a closer look at: the plumbing. Yes, that hidden network of pipes, valves, and fixtures that make modern life comfortable… until it doesn’t.
A home might pass a standard inspection with flying colors, but plumbing issues often hide in the background. And if you skip a thorough check now, you could be in for a rude (and costly) surprise later. Here’s what you should really pay attention to before closing the deal.
It’s More Than Just the Sewer Line
Let’s start with the one most people do check: the sewer line. Running a camera down the main sewer line can uncover root invasions, blockages, and collapsed sections. It’s a smart move, especially in older homes with clay or cast iron pipes.
But plumbing is about more than just what happens underground. What’s going on behind the walls and under the floors matters just as much. A sewer scope won’t tell you if the water pressure is uneven, if the pipes are corroded, or if the water heater is clinging to its final days. That’s where a more comprehensive plumbing inspection comes in.
Pressure Problems and Pipe Age
You might not think about water pressure during a quick walk-through, but it’s a good idea to test it while you’re touring. Turn on a couple of faucets at the same time. If the water trickles out like it’s shy or hesitant, that could mean there’s an issue. Poor water pressure could be caused by something as simple as mineral buildup—or as serious as aging or undersized supply lines.
And speaking of age: do you know what kind of pipes the house has? Galvanized steel pipes were common several decades ago, but they corrode from the inside out. Polybutylene pipes, used in homes from the late ’70s through the mid-’90s, have a reputation for failing under pressure. If the home still has either, you’re potentially looking at a full re-pipe sooner than later.
Sneaky Leaks and Hidden Damage
Leaks are like termites—often quiet, sneaky, and incredibly destructive over time. You might not see water actively dripping, but discoloration on walls or ceilings, musty smells in cabinets, and warped floorboards near tubs or sinks can all be signs that moisture is getting where it shouldn’t.
In some cases, previous homeowners may have patched things cosmetically—just enough to hide the problem during a showing. A trained plumber can spot the difference between a tidy patch job and a band-aid over a gaping issue.
Don’t Forget the Fixtures
Yes, toilets deserve their moment too. Give them a flush (or three) while you’re walking through. Watch how quickly they drain and refill. Listen for gurgles or long, loud refills. Even newer homes can have venting issues or minor plumbing quirks that are worth noting before closing.
You should also check under sinks for signs of water damage or corrosion around shut-off valves. Those valves should turn easily—if they’re frozen in place, you may be in for trouble the first time you try to use them in a real emergency.
And while you’re outside, don’t forget the outdoor spigots. If the house was winterized improperly, freeze damage could cause leaks in spring, and you won’t notice it until your garden hose is flooding the yard—or worse, the basement.
The Water Heater: Humble but Crucial
It’s not glamorous, but the water heater is a workhorse. Ask the seller how old it is (you can often find the manufacturing date on the serial number label). Most water heaters have a lifespan of 8–12 years. If it’s on the older side, you’ll want to budget for a replacement sooner rather than later.
Also, consider its size and capacity. A 30-gallon heater might be fine for a single person, but it probably won’t cut it for a family of four. And location matters too—a leak in a utility closet is annoying; a leak in an upstairs laundry room can be a disaster.
One Final Tip: Bring in the Pros
Most general home inspectors will give the plumbing a once-over, but they’re not licensed plumbers. They might miss signs of aging infrastructure, improper installations, or hidden inefficiencies. That’s why it’s smart to have a licensed plumber—like one of our experienced techs at Ensor Plumbing—give the system a thorough review.
We’ve helped dozens of homeowners in Maryland avoid buying into someone else’s plumbing headaches. Whether it’s a quick check or a full inspection, we’ll give you the honest rundown, so you know exactly what you’re walking into.
Bottom line? A new home is a huge investment. Don’t let bad plumbing drain your budget—or your sanity.
Before you sign, let Ensor Plumbing help you look beyond the sewer line. Your future self (and your bank account) will thank you.