Pre-Sale Plumbing Checklist: What Home Sellers Need to Know

Selling your home? First impressions matter–and that includes what’s behind the walls and under the sinks. Take time to inspect your plumbing, sewer, and drains before putting your home on the market. A few simple checks can help you avoid red flags during the buyer’s inspection and even potentially increase the value of your home. Here’s a helpful checklist to help get your home’s plumbing system in tip-top shape before it hits the market.

Plumbing Essentials

Before listing, make sure your home is leak-free and everything is running smoothly. 

• Look for leaks: Check under sinks, around toilets, tubs, and exposed pipes for any visible leaks or signs of water damage. 
• Inspect water pressure: Turn on every faucet and shower to check for consistent, strong water flow. Low pressure may indicate buildup or blockage. 
• Test faucets: Make sure hot and cold water functions properly and handles operate smoothly. 
• Check shut-off valves: Located under sinks and toilets–these should turn easily and show no signs of corrosion. 
• Watch for water damage: Stains or soft spots on ceilings, walls, or inside cabinets can indicate past or current leaks and should be addressed. 
• Clear the drains: Slow drains are a red flag–address them early to help prevent buyer concerns.
• Check toilets: Flush all toilets to ensure they are working properly and not running continuously. 

Water Heater Check

Your water heater is a key selling point. Nobody wants to run out of hot water in the middle of a shower, so an old or leaky one can be a deal-breaker. 

• Inspect for rust or leaks: Look closely at the base, valves, and fittings for signs of corrosion or moisture. 
• Set the right temperature: 120°F is the sweet spot for efficiency, comfort, and safety. 
• Know its age: Most water heaters last 8-12 years. If yours is pushing that limit, you may want to consider a replacement. 
• Flush it out: If it hasn’t been flushed in a while, do it now to remove sediment buildup and to help keep things running efficiently. 

Sewer Line Insights

Buyers–and inspectors–don’t want to be surprised by sewer line issues. Getting ahead of them can save time and headaches. 

• Consider a camera inspection: Knowing the condition of your sewer line before listing can streamline negotiations and help avoid delays at and leading up to closing. 
• Listen for clues: Gurgling sounds or slow drains in multiple areas could be signs of a deeper issue. 
• Check clean-out ports: Ensure they are accessible, properly capped, and free of obstruction. 
• Inspect the yard: Soggy spots or sunken areas over the sewer line could point to a leak or break. 

Drains and Fixtures

No one wants to walk into a showing and smell something funky. Take time to give every drain and fixture a once-over to help avoid this. 

• Snake or clean all major drains: Especially in the kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry areas. 
• Verify traps: Every sink should have a p-trap to help prevent sewer gas from entering your home. 
• Check for odors: If a sink does smell funky, remove and clean the p-trap. 
• Test the garbage disposal: Make sure it runs smoothly without strange noises or smells. A quick spin with some citrus peels can really freshen it up!

Crawl Spaces and Basements

Buyers and inspectors will check below ground level–make sure it is dry and odor-free! 

• Inspect for standing water: Water or musty smells could indicate drainage or plumbing problems. 
• Watch for mold or stains: Signs of past leaks should be addressed before listing. 

Additional Checks

Don’t forget these finishing touches! 

• Outdoor hose bibs: Check for leaks and cracks–especially if those hoses were left connected during the winter. 
• Sump pump check: If your home has one, test it to make sure it activates and discharges properly. 
• Water softeners and filters: If included in the home, make sure they are functioning correctly and filters have been replaced if needed. 

Taking the time to walk through this checklist before listing your home can give buyers peace of mind–and help you close the deal faster. Click here for a printable checklist! If you need help with inspections, repairs, or professional advice, Z PLUMBERZ is here to help. Our team of licensed experts can help ensure your home’s plumbing is operating at peak efficiency so you can sell with confidence. 

Need a hand before you list? Contact Z PLUMBERZ and schedule your pre-sale plumbing inspection!