When buying or selling a home, a professional inspection is one of the most important steps. But here’s the catch: while home inspectors do a great job looking at general systems, plumbing issues are often overlooked. Small leaks, hidden damage, or outdated pipes can easily slip through the cracks—and those oversights can turn into expensive repairs down the road.
At Brisc Plumbing, we’ve seen it all. From homes in Watertown to Oconomowoc and Beaver Dam, our team often gets called in after a home sale to address plumbing issues that were missed during the inspection. To help you stay ahead, here are some of the most common plumbing problems inspectors often don’t catch.
Not all leaks are obvious. A slow drip behind a wall or under a floor might not show visible signs during a standard inspection. Over time, that moisture can lead to mold, warped flooring, or structural damage.
Tip: A licensed plumber can use specialized tools to detect leaks that aren’t visible to the eye.
Many older homes in Wisconsin still have galvanized steel or cast-iron plumbing. These materials corrode from the inside out, which means they can look fine on the surface while actually restricting water flow or leaking internally.
Tip: If you’re buying an older home, ask for a plumbing inspection to determine the pipe material and its condition.
DIY projects or unpermitted renovations often leave behind poorly installed plumbing fixtures. This can lead to leaks, low water pressure, or even code violations that a general inspection may not flag.
Tip: A plumber can ensure all fixtures are properly installed and up to code before you move in.
Home inspectors rarely run sewer camera inspections. That means tree root intrusions, cracks, or clogs in your sewer line often go unnoticed until a major backup happens.
Tip: For older homes—or if there are large trees on the property—schedule a professional sewer camera inspection before closing.
Inspectors usually check if the water heater turns on, but they don’t always look at the age, efficiency, or maintenance history. An old water heater might work during inspection but fail shortly after you move in.
Tip: Have a plumber check the water heater’s age, tank condition, and safety features.
The best way to avoid costly surprises is to pair your home inspection with a professional plumbing inspection. This extra step provides peace of mind, especially in areas like Wisconsin where older homes are common and seasonal weather puts additional stress on plumbing systems.
At Brisc Plumbing, we provide thorough plumbing inspections for both homebuyers and sellers. Whether it’s identifying small leaks or evaluating the health of your sewer line, we’ll help you make informed decisions before you sign the paperwork.
Don’t let hidden plumbing issues catch you off guard. Call Brisc Plumbing today to schedule a professional plumbing inspection in Watertown, Beaver Dam, or Oconomowoc. Protect your investment and gain peace of mind before making your next move.
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