If you’re getting ready to start looking for a new home, we have two words for you: Buyer beware. Especially when it comes to the potential for hidden plumbing problems that you would rather not inherit.

Here are just a few of the things to be on the lookout for:

Recent kitchen or bathroom renovations. Some sellers put a lot of time and effort into fixing up their homes before putting them on the market, while others try the ol’ “lipstick on a pig” approach. As in, they attempt to make it LOOK as if a lot of thought and time went into it. That’s why you should ask to see any relevant copies of plans, receipts, and so on. Among other things, you’ll find out who did the work and have an opportunity to check out their credentials.

Quality of plumbing fixtures. Just because plumbing fixtures work now doesn’t mean they’ll work a year from now. So as part of your inspection process, check out the plumbing fixtures to determine if they’re of sound quality or just quick fixes.

Touch-up paint jobs. Sometimes sellers will have some touch-up paint work done to cover over scratches and other marks, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if what they’re attempting to mask are signs of water damage, that’s a whole different story. Not only should you ask about the painting work, but have your own qualified inspector search the house for signs of hidden water leaks and existing water damage, past or present.

Spongy areas in the yard. Don’t many people confine their new home tours to the indoors and simply step out on a deck or patio to have a look at the property. And that’s how easy it can be to miss signs of sewer or septic tank problems. Specifically, if it’s a dry day and it hasn’t rained in a while, and still you find damp and spongy areas in the yard, have those investigated further. By the way, their presence doesn’t mean the sellers are trying to hide anything – they too could be unaware of the problem.

Signs of hard water. Your new home inspection should also include looking for signs of hard water conditions, which include stains on dishware and glasses, a white filmy residue on pots and pans, and soap scum on shower doors and bathroom tiles.

Buying a home is a tricky proposition under the best of circumstances, so don’t make things harder on yourself not fully investigating the quality of the homes you’re interested in buying, with special attention paid to the plumbing plus the heating and cooling systems. And yet, if you do uncover any problems after settling into your home, you can count on Connor Plumbing for prompt and effective solutions. And always with a guaranteed upfront price.