Buying house with cast iron plumbing

Question

We looked at a house and it has everything we want expt when we walked down to the finished basement I noticed that the plumbing looks like it's cast iron. I'm not sure when the plumbing was done all I know is the house was built in the 1900s. I don't know how much is cast iron or anything like that. The current homeowners don't know either. I'm not sure of any good plumbers to come in look at it or even a person to do home inspection. We are new to the area.

Adrianne C · Answer

I was raised in a house built in the 60's in Florida with cast iron drains, and galvanized water lines. We had hard water and both the iron and the galvanized rusted. The iron pipes would flake off inside the pipe and hair and soap scum would get stuck on it clogging the drain. We'd have to call Roto rooter out to clear the lines. The water lines rusted causing all the fixtures to have rust stains. The power was grounded to the water lines and caused rust on the appliances. Culligan water filter helped, but best solution was replacing all the plumbing. The first thing I'd check is the water, if it has a high mineral content. I'd also check for any signs of rust or corrosion.

Jaxon · Answer

A good reputable plumber should have no problem coming out to your house and check it out for you. Did you want to  re plumb the house or just have it inspected? I'm sure they can help.

Joyce · Answer

I pray your are going to have a complete home inspection before you sign on the dotted line!!! We did for our 'new' home and it was well worth every penny for all the 'small' things that were found!! and several major issues!!!

Alisha Meyer · Answer

Oh yea we plan on doing a home inspection.  I'm just wondering if this is something even worth getting involved with

Kelley M · Answer

You can always add something about the pipes in you offer and contract the you are subtracting the cost but will consider paying the subtracted a out if the work is done

Gail Salminen · Answer

@Alisha Meyer in a house of this age you can be pretty sure that there is lead in the plumbing which can lead to health problems. Perhaps consult with either your public health office or environmental health office for advice.

Buying house with cast iron plumbing

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Buying house with cast iron plumbing

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