Older houses near Downtown Fullerton can be well cared for and still hide aging pipe. A previous owner may have replaced the water heater and fixtures but left galvanized supply lines and the original sewer lateral in place. Because these systems are behind walls, under floors and underground, it pays to look specifically for them during the purchase.
A general home inspection is a starting point. For an older property, many buyers add a sewer camera inspection and ask a plumber to look at the supply piping and gas connections.
What to check
- Supply pipe material at the water heater, under sinks and in the crawlspace
- Water pressure at an upstairs or far fixture with another tap running
- Water color when a tap is first opened after sitting
- Drain speed at every fixture, including tubs and floor drains
- A sewer camera inspection of the lateral, with the video
- Water heater age, seismic strapping and venting
- Gas connectors and shutoff valves at appliances
- Main water shutoff location and whether it works
Fitting plumbing checks into the purchase
- Before the offer
- Ask the listing agent about known plumbing work, repiping and sewer repairs.
- Inspection period
- Schedule the general inspection and a separate sewer camera inspection early, so results arrive in time.
- After findings
- Get written assessments from a licensed plumber for anything significant.
- Before closing
- Collect any records, permits and videos for work the seller says was done.
Questions for the seller
- Has the house been repiped, and with what material?
- Has the sewer lateral been repaired, lined or replaced, and is there a video or record?
- Have there been backups, and how often was the line cleared?
- Were permits pulled for plumbing work? I can check with the City of Fullerton as well.
- How old is the water heater, and is it strapped?
Example: a promising house with old pipe
Illustrative example. Not a real job or customer.
A buyer likes a pre-war house with updated fixtures. The inspection report notes galvanized pipe at the water heater and slow drainage in the back bathroom.
- The buyer schedules a sewer camera inspection during the inspection period.
- The video shows roots at several clay joints in the yard section of the lateral.
- A plumber looks at exposed supply pipe and confirms most of it is galvanized.
- The buyer gets written assessments for both issues to inform the next steps of the purchase.
The buyer goes forward with a clear picture of the work ahead instead of discovering it after moving in.
Common questions
Is galvanized pipe a deal breaker?
Not necessarily. Many older houses have it. What matters is its condition and whether you are prepared to replace it, which a plumber's assessment helps you judge.
Does a general home inspection include a sewer camera?
Often it does not. Ask your inspector what is included and schedule a sewer camera inspection separately if needed.
How do I check whether past plumbing work had permits?
Ask the seller for records and check with the City of Fullerton about permit history for the address.
General information for Downtown Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.