5 Key Takeaways Before Buying a Home in St. Louis:
- Older Homes = Older Pipes – Many St. Louis homes have outdated plumbing that may include corroded or root-intruded lines.
- Plumbing Issues Are Costly – Undetected water or sewer problems can lead to major repairs and structural damage.
- Standard Inspections May Miss It – Drain and water lines often aren’t fully evaluated during routine home inspections.
- ALLN1 Plumbing Offers Pre-Purchase Inspections – Get a full system check using camera scopes, pressure tests, and leak detection.
- Know Before You Buy – A plumbing inspection helps you avoid expensive surprises and gives you leverage during negotiations.
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments most people will make—and in St. Louis, where many homes are 50, 75, or even 100+ years old, hidden plumbing issues can turn your dream home into a financial nightmare.
Before you sign on the dotted line, it’s essential to go beyond the surface-level inspections and have a close look at what’s underneath—specifically, the drain and water lines.
Why Plumbing Shouldn’t Be Overlooked During a Home Purchase
Most buyers are diligent about checking the roof, HVAC system, and electrical panel—but plumbing systems are often ignored until it’s too late. Unlike cosmetic upgrades, plumbing problems can cause serious structural damage and rack up thousands in repairs if left unchecked.
Older homes in St. Louis are especially vulnerable to corroded pipes, root intrusion, shifting soil, and outdated materials like cast iron or galvanized steel. These issues may not be visible during a standard walk-through but can cause backups, low water pressure, leaks, or full-blown line failures soon after moving in.
Common Problems Found in Older St. Louis Homes
If you’re looking at homes in established neighborhoods like Webster Groves, Kirkwood, or Central West End, chances are the plumbing is original—or patched together over decades. Here are a few common issues buyers should be aware of:
• Tree root intrusion in main sewer lines
• Corroded or leaking water lines
• Shifting or collapsed drain pipes due to soil movement
• Old lead, cast iron, or clay piping
• Low water pressure from mineral buildup
These issues often remain undetected in a typical home inspection unless the inspector specifically runs a sewer scope or recommends a licensed plumber for evaluation.
How to Protect Yourself Before You Buy
To avoid unexpected surprises, it’s important to work with your agent and inspector to ensure the drain and water lines are inspected by a qualified plumbing professional. At ALLN1 Plumbing, we offer pre-purchase plumbing inspections that go deeper than your average home check.
Our team uses advanced camera equipment to inspect underground sewer lines, check for leaks, and test water pressure throughout the home. We’ll provide a clear, easy-to-understand report of the system’s condition—so you can negotiate repairs, request a price reduction, or walk away from a bad investment.
What a Plumbing Inspection Includes
When you schedule a plumbing inspection with ALLN1 Plumbing, we check:
• The main water line for leaks, age, and pressure
• Sewer line condition and flow using a camera scope
• Drainage speed and clog risks in sinks, tubs, and toilets
• Water heater condition and lifespan
• Pipe material and any signs of corrosion or deterioration
This thorough evaluation helps ensure your new home won’t come with costly plumbing surprises after closing.
Peace of Mind Starts With the Right Partner
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, knowing the condition of a home’s plumbing system can make or break your decision. Don’t let hidden drain or water line issues catch you off guard.
Call ALLN1 Plumbing today at (314) 688-6718 to schedule a pre-purchase plumbing inspection in the St. Louis area.
We’re local, experienced, and committed to protecting your investment—before you buy.