We’ve all heard the horror stories of first home buyers purchasing a beautiful new home only to discover that the foundations are sinking or there are structural problems with the building.
Most buyers know that professional building surveys are a necessity before buying but many people are unaware of the importance of a professional drainage survey. Here is everything you need to know before you sign on that dotted line.
Why Do I Need A Drain Survey?
Your wastewater system is a vital component of what makes up a functioning home. Cracked pipes, damaged septic tanks and clogs can all be identified with a professional drain survey before your purchase. This could save you the headache of having to fork out thousands of dollars down the track for something that could have been avoided.
Additionally, a full drain survey can inform buyers of where significant infrastructure lies beneath the ground. This gives you a more informed approach to future extension plans or additions to the property.
What Should I Be Looking for?
A full drainage survey before purchase has now become the industry standard. To provide the most accurate information to your drainage survey contractor, take these steps before making the call:
- Upon initial inspection, try running all the faucets in the house to ensure they drain as they should and that they have adequate pressure.
- You can also check the location, age and condition of your water heater to avoid paying for a replacement system in the future. This information can make it easier for your contractor to identify and fix problems faster.
What Is Yours and What Is Theirs?
By getting an initial drain survey, first homebuyers can determine what part of the system they are responsible for and what may belong to a utility company. This can help to avoid repair discrepancies in the future or perhaps warn a utility company of an impending waste water problem.
Getting Your New Home Cheaper
CCTV drain surveys are now commonplace in the real estate industry as they can provide undeniable proof that there are issues with a house’s plumbing. Armed with the footage from a drainage survey, first home buyers could ask for a price reduction given that the system may require significant repairs. Alternatively, you can at least be aware of costs that may be required in the future to repair the damage.
Whose Responsibility Is It to Organise the Survey?
A building surveyor can and should provide a buyer with a full drainage survey when surveying the property but ultimately it is the buyer’s responsibility to ensure that they have all the adequate information.
If you’re interested in a drain survey for your new home, contact DrainBlasters or book a job online. Call 09 320 3897.
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