Don't Let Plumbing Problems Throw a Wrench in the Home-Selling Process

Mr. Rooter
Published: June 3rd, 2008

Plumbing Checkup for Prospective Home Sellers

June 03, 2008 // Franchising.com // WACO, Texas – With today's housing slump, homeowners can't afford to have hidden plumbing problems cost them the sale. To ensure their house passes the home inspection that usually comes with selling, homeowners should examine their plumbing.

By checking plumbing fixtures, homeowners can locate and repair or replace any problems before they put their home up for sale. Many prospective buyers hire a professional home inspector before signing on the dotted line, so finding and fixing problems now could help expedite the closing process later.

"A plumbing checkup can show homeowners what to look for when it comes to leaks, drips and other plumbing problems," said Mary Kennedy Thompson, president of the Mr. Rooter Corporation. "We want to educate and equip homeowners with the information they need to make sure their plumbing is working properly."

Follow this plumbing checkup from Mr. Rooter® to keep plumbing problems from throwing a wrench in the home-selling experience.

Sinks:

• Examine all faucets to make sure none drip.


• Fill sinks with water and then drain to ensure good drain flow.


• Open cabinet doors and check under sinks for leaks.


• Look for rust and corrosion on sinks as well as pipes.

Bathroom:

• Fill bathtubs with water and then drain to confirm good drain flow.


• Inspect the base of toilets for signs of water damage or soft floors.


• Flush toilets. Check for continual running after tank is full. Make sure debris clears from the bowl.

Kitchen:

• Run garbage disposal and dishwasher to make sure they work properly.

Other plumbing fixtures:

• Turn water supply valves on and off to test for leaks.


• Check the first four digits of the water heater's serial number (they are the month and year it was made). Make sure it isn't more than 10 years old.


• Inspect the water meter and observe a small dial which spins when any amount of water moves through the system. This will detect even small amounts of water loss.


• Hire a professional plumber to video inspect the sewer line to verify it is in good condition. Homeowners who aren't do-it-yourselfers should call a qualified, licensed plumber.

About Mr. Rooter®:

Established in 1970, Mr. Rooter is the largest all-franchised, full-service plumbing and drain cleaning company in the world with approximately 300 franchises worldwide. Recognized by Entrepreneur magazine among its "Franchise 500" and Franchise Times Top 200, Mr. Rooter franchisees provide services to both residential and commercial customers. Mr. Rooter began franchising in 1974 and is a subsidiary of The Dwyer Group, Inc. For more information or to find the location nearest you, please visit our Web site at www.mrrooter.com.