Buying a home is an exciting process. However, it is important to evaluate the quality of the interior, including the bathroom. A thorough inspection can be vital in deciding whether or not to buy, or can serve as a checklist for a future renovation. In this guide, we will describe the main areas you need to inspect to evaluate the overall state of the bathroom.

Plumbing

Looking for leaks is what we’re here for. Run cold and hot water from the faucets and the shower for several minutes. Check the faucets themselves and the pipes under the sink. Use paper towels to check for any water leaking from the pipes. Also, check for drainage. Poor drainage may be the result of clogged pipes.

       

      Bubble Leak Test Method (Youtube: HouseImprovements)  

Check the toilet. Does it stand firmly? If not, the wax seal is probably broken, which may result in the toilet breaking apart after a short time. Check for cracks. Flush the toilet a couple of times to check for faults in the flapper valve. If water doesn’t stop flowing, this means the system is compromised and will result in high water bills or a malfunction. Check how it sounds when flushed. If it has burbling sounds, the flushing system is probably not working the way it should.

Vanity

Open and close drawers and doors a couple of times. They should work smoothly, without getting stuck or making unnatural sounds. Check the vanity for signs of scratches on the outside, and for mould and water damage on the inside. Lightly shake knobs and handles. They should be firm. If you notice any warping, color changes or smell inside, those may be the signs of water damage.

If there's a sink in the vanity, check how it is sealed. If the sink or faucet is loose, this will probably result in the separation of the sink. Check the material of both sink and countertop. Any chips or cracks are concerning, as they compromise the integrity of the whole countertop and affect future durability.

Hardware

Check towel racks, toilet paper holders, and grab bars. They should all be firmly mounted with no wobble. This is exceptionally important if you have a household member with movement disabilities who will rely on grab bars with all their weight. Inspect the screws - they should not have rust or corrosion, which is a sign of cheap material used. Also check the curtain rod or the glass shower door rails. Everything should move smoothly. If not, that’s a sign of bad installation or wear and tear.

Ventilation

Correct ventilation is vital for preventing mould and bad odors. This is a crucial element of a healthy bathroom. To test the ventilation fan, turn it on and listen to the sound. A good fan equals a silent fan. If you hear grinding sounds or rattling, that is a bad sign. Next, do the tissue test. Place a small tissue on the fan and turn it on. If the suction power is not enough to hold the tissue, this signals a clogged or malfunctioning ventilation system.

Decision

All of these are important to note and to discuss with the previous homeowner, who may be glad to fix some of the issues. If not, you should evaluate the biggest threats, such as mould, leaking pipes, and poor ventilation. Fixtures and furniture are easy to replace, but these issues are serious hazards to your health and to the future condition of the house.

If you need professional advice about plumbing fixtures, or need a professional assessment - contact Golzar Home and we will be happy to answer all your questions.