When it comes to homeownership, there are plenty of details that need to be addressed. However, one of the most important factors that is often overlooked is how to maintain your home once it’s purchased. If you’re in the process of buying a home and don’t know much about plumbing, you may feel a little overwhelmed. Fortunately, there are many resources available that can teach you everything you need to know about the plumbing in your home. Unfortunately, not all of them are accurate or trustworthy. If you’re in the process of purchasing a home and want to make sure your prospective home is equipped with quality plumbing, read on for common myths about plumbing services. If one of these applies to you before you sign the final papers, keep reading for more information on what you need to know before buying a home with plumbing in mind.

You Don’t Need a Licensed Plumber

One common misconception is that you don’t need a licensed plumber to install your new plumbing system. While this is partially true, it’s important to understand that a licensed plumber is an expert who will perform a full inspection of your home to determine the best way to install the plumbing system. If your home is older and the pipes are made of iron or other materials that aren’t approved for today’s standards, a licensed plumber will be able to determine the best way to update your plumbing system. Not only does this ensure that your home is safe and up to code, but it also saves you money in the long run.

A Licensed Plumber Will Charge an Exorbitant Fee

Another common misconception is that a licensed plumber will charge an exorbitant fee to install your plumbing system. While this may have been the case in the past, it’s important to note that today’s licensed plumbing contractors have a monopoly in their local market and are guaranteed to make a profit. However, this doesn’t mean that they’re going to charge an outrageous fee. In fact, you can find affordable rates from licensed plumbing contractors by doing a bit of research and asking around. If you find a licensed plumber who offers a free estimate, you’ll be able to see exactly how much your project will cost before you sign any contracts.

Only the Owner’s House Needs To Be Inspected

Another common misconception is that only the owner’s house needs to be inspected before purchase. While this is partially true, it’s important to understand that the seller’s house will be inspected by the real estate agent. When the inspector arrives at the seller’s house, they’ll typically perform a visual inspection of the plumbing system to make sure they’re in good working order. If they find any issues, such as leaks or broken pipes, they’ll provide the seller with a written report that details the problem. If you find that the seller’s house doesn’t have a written report, it’s a good sign that the seller may not have done any maintenance on the plumbing system.

You Need to Be Homeowners to Have Plumbing Problems

Another common misconception is that you need to be homeowners in order to have plumbing problems. While this may be the case in certain parts of the country, it’s important to understand that this isn’t the case in all areas. If you’re renting, you have no choice but to accept whatever plumbing system the landlord has installed. If you find that the plumbing in your home is faulty, it’s a good idea to contact the landlord’s agent as soon as possible so they can be made aware of the problem. Once the problem has been addressed, you can work with a licensed plumber to repair the problem.

A Licensed Plumber Will Arrive at the Wrong Time of the Year

Another common misconception is that a licensed plumber will arrive at the wrong time of the year to complete your project. If you’re in the process of buying a home and need to install new plumbing, it’s important to understand that the installation will take place over a specific time frame. If you’re having an old plumbing system replaced with a new one, it’s important to ensure that the new plumbing system is installed before winter sets in. If you plan to have a new plumbing system installed in the fall, the process will typically take two to three weeks. While you can always contact a licensed plumber to reschedule the project, it’s important to understand that this isn’t always an option.

Conclusion

When it comes to buying a home, it’s important to understand that the house is only as good as the foundation it’s built on. If you plan to purchase a home with plumbing, it’s important to ensure that the plumbing system is in good working order. Unfortunately, there are plenty of misconceptions about plumbing services. However, if you’re in the process of buying a home, it’s important to ensure that you’re aware of the common myths surrounding plumbing services.

Frequently Asked Question

  • Keeping the Water On During an Emergency
  • Overusing Drain Cleaners
  • Fixing Plumbing Issues on Your Own
  • Ignoring a Plumbing Issue
  • Using a Handyman Instead of a Licensed Plumber
  • Turning Off Your Heater in the Winter
  • Not Scheduling Plumbing Service
  • Have the Right Tools for the Job
  • Turn off All Water Before You Start
  • Use Natural Methods to Unclog Your Drains
  • Don't Put Trash in Your Garbage Disposal
  • Don't Overtighten Plumbing Connections
  • Don't Hesitate to Call for Help
Maintenance may also include inspection of your garbage disposal lines (and unit), dishwasher, and washing machine hoses and lines. Maintenance sometimes consists of a drain and flush of the water heater. If you've purchased a plumbing maintenance plan, read the fine print and always ask for clarification.
  • Over Tightening Plumbing Connections
  • Using Inappropriate Tape or Wrapping a Thread Tape Backwards
  • Using Drain Line Cleaners as the First Option
  • Handling Plumbing Jobs without the Necessary Spare Parts
  • Failing to Turn Off Water
  • Using Excessive Force on Valves Stuck on Shut Off