As you house hunting, checking on the plumbing is usually at the back of your mind. As a Kenyan, as long as there is running water everything is fine. But is it though? What about the plumbing?
Once, you move in you discover all these little plumbing problems that were there and you didn’t even realize while viewing the house.
Some plumbing issues are easy to fix while others can lead to serious problems and major financial woes if not attended to. Don’t discover later, identify the red flags earlier.
Related:Major House Hunting Red Flag in Nairobi you Must Know
Outdated sewage system
You must determine the sewage system of the home. Basically, the sewer will exit the property at the lowest point of the house. If its a septic it will run into a tank or field. If the house has a septic tank, you need to find out where it is.
The warning signs should be water around the area of the septic tank, spillage of sewage or unpleasant smell. When sewage pipes are clogged or damaged they allow sewage back into your house.
Leaky Toilets
There are two types of leaky toilets: one, the water won’t stop running it means there is a problem with the chain or handle. Two, leaking at the bottom of the tank or the pipe.
While you are viewing a house, flush the toilet and look if it’s leaking. Most of us will realize the toilet is leaky after weeks of living in the house. This is a solvable issue. Call a professional and they will handle it.
In addition, look for any discolouration on the floor or if the bowl is wiggling when touched. A leaking toilet will rot through your floor.
Leak under the sink
This is the most common problems with Kenyan houses. The sink! If it isn’t the kitchen sink, its the bathroom sink then the dinning sink. We usually notice the faucet leaks but other times it’s below the sink. This problem is fixable.
Although, if you don’t want to incur most cost after purchase ensure all sinks are functioning without leaks or dripping water from the faucet.
Clogged drains
With the pressures of house hunting, it won’t let you be more thorough while investigating a house. Clogged drains are common. When overlooked, clogged drains can lead to serious leaks. To check a drain, turn on the tap and let it run for 2 03 5 mins. The water should drain quickly and continue to drain until the water is completely disappearing.
You should go on further and check under the sink for leaks, water damage or mould. Steal a glance at the drain pipe, if it has been painted over. This means the previous owner was trying to cover up.
Poorly installed water pipes
Leaky pipes can lead to serious water damage. Look for these warning signs: pinhole leaks, corroded joints and warn piping. If you notice slow flow coming from the home’s drains, it could mean the pipes aren’t wide enough.
Pipes should also be properly insulated. Not only will this save your money in the long run but it will keep them from bursting.
A home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime. Be sure about what you are getting yourself into. When faced with uncertainty about the plumbing problems seek professional help.
See Also:A Budget-friendly Guide- when Looking for a House
At Kenya Homes, we can ease your pressure by accompanying you when house hunting, contact us today.