Simply Junior

Will you know what to do in your new home if something nasty happens with any of the water-related fixtures in the residence? The truth of the matter is that in this life toilets overflow, dishwasher hoses crack, water pipes eventually leak and sometimes even burst wide open. These unfortunate incidents can bring major inconvenience to your life and costly ruin to your property. Own a home long enough you are likely to experience a significant water-related event within the next few years if you haven’t already, so it is better to be prepared so that precious time is not wasted that might drive up the costs of repairs. If you get to know your plumbing well and treat it like a friend, you might even be able to decrease the chance of an unexpected water disaster, perhaps saving yourself thousands of dollars while improving the value of your investment!

Prior to purchase:

Either you or a professional plumber you trust should inspect the quality of all plumbing within the property and demand that any portion which is not in great condition be replaced in order to protect your investment. If you suspect that any section of plumbing (large or small) is in decline, insist on a remedy or a price adjustment to compensate for your intention to take care of the matter yourself. Consider making friends and maintaining a good relationship with a plumber you can trust who will have your best interests in mind and perhaps offer you advice to save you money or help you avoid unnecessary costs in the future. Of course, it wouldn’t hurt you to attend some workshops or classes on Do-It-Yourself Plumbing Repair. Find out the age and make certain of the condition of any septic system, including information about the company that installed it. You should investigate the life expectancy of the system and be prepared to haggle over the issue if you feel you and your wallet are at risk. Know the location of every water shut-off valve in the home. When you do your first walk-through prior to purchase, you should inspect each water fixture and look for a convenient shut-off. If you find a sink or tub or any other fixture that runs water yet does not have a nearby way to shut that water off in an emergency, you should plan to have such installed, or even make the practical installation of such a requirement of purchase. Obtain detailed design and construction schematics of the home, especially any information available on any home improvements that have been completed which affected or changed the original plumbing layout.After purchase:

Assemble and keep accessible an “Water Emergency” kit that will allow you to quickly deal with the most common types of incidents such as an overflowing sink or tub (due to clogged drain) or a leaking pipe. You want to be able to stop the flow of water, conveniently clean up (and disinfect) any mess, and prevent further problems until the problem can be resolved. Perform a monthly check on interior and exterior areas of your home where plumbing runs, including all visible connections as well as surface and floor areas near where pipes run behind sheetrock and other wall material. If you see any sign of moisture, address the cause or have someone experienced take care of it. Finally, if you have not done so for quite a while, you should review and update your homeowner’s insurance to feel confident that the details have not changed in your coverage. You must never be fooled into believing that your insurance company is always completely transparent when they make adjustments to the rules. You do not want to be one of those unfortunate souls who find out that the rules have changed when you weren’t looking. Thousands and thousands are the people who have had to go to court to fight tooth and nail with companies claiming “We’re Like A Good Neighbor” and “You’re In Good Hands” when their plumbing had issues related to a natural weather event. Insurance companies do not look kindly on having to pay up and do everything they can to avoid relinquishing the vast profits you provide them. The best insurance is attention to detail! Take the right steps in the name of water safety – both while looking for a home and after you’ve purchased one – and you can greatly decrease your risk for catastrophic water damage. When it comes to protecting your home and your wallet or purse against the risks of plumbing-related incidents, remember that diligence saves dollars.