Walk into an older home, and you might immediately fall in love with the charm, character, and curb appeal. But beneath all that nostalgia, there’s one thing buyers often forget to investigate:
The plumbing. Specifically cast iron plumbing.
If you’re looking at a home that’s older, you need to understand what’s happening under the foundation because with cast iron, failure isn’t an if. It’s a when.
Why Age Matters
Homes built prior to 1980 commonly used cast iron drain systems. At the time, it was considered durable and high quality. However today many of those pipes are well past their lifespan.
Cast iron deteriorates due to:
- Corrosion
- Moisture
- Soil acidity
- Time
- Pressure changes
- Natural wear
Once deterioration starts, it leads to:
- Underground leaks
- Foundation movement
- Sewage backups
- Expensive repairs and replacements
Knowing how to spot these risks is part of being an informed buyer.
“It’s Not If They Will Fail… It’s When.”
No plumber is going to tell you cast iron lasts forever.
Its lifespan is predictable and once it expires, the problems begin.
You’re not looking at a hypothetical issue. You’re looking at a guaranteed future repair.
That doesn’t mean you should avoid older homes altogether.
It means you should walk in educated and protected.
What Buyers Should Do Before Writing an Offer
According to inspectors, there is one major inspection older-home shoppers should never skip: sewer scope. And if the Seller permits, a hydrostatic test is even better.
Hydrostatic Testing
Performed by a licensed plumber, this test determines whether your plumbing system has underground leaks.
Here’s how it works:
- The plumber blocks the sewer line.
- Fills the system with water.
- Monitors the water level.
- If the level drops → you have a leak.
- Then, a specialist locates and diagnoses the problem.
This test is not included in standard inspections, you must request it separately. And with older homes, it’s an absolute must.
Why Leak Location Matters
Where the leak occurs determines the seriousness of the issue.
Leak Near the Edge of the Slab
More accessible.
Often less costly.
Sometimes repairable through tunneling.
Leak Under the Middle of the Home
This is where things get tricky on slab foundations (less invasive on pier and beam). Middle-of-slab leaks often require:
- Jackhammering floors
- Rerouting plumbing
- Foundation precautions
- Major repairs
Money can disappear quickly on interior plumbing repairs…especially if you don’t have extra flooring to match.
Older Homes Require the Right Questions
A knowledgeable agent will know to ask:
- Has the cast iron been replaced?
- Has a hydrostatic test been done?
- Was the replacement partial or complete?
- Are receipts and permits available?
- Have there been previous foundation or plumbing repairs?
- Are there signs of moisture or drainage issues?
Plumbing issues don’t just affect plumbing, they affect the entire structure. This is just one of many reasons why older homes require more intentional due diligence.
Client Testimonial
“Ashley has been incredible to work with! She is professional, kind, wise, and VERY hardworking. I highly recommend her.”
— Mary Rose Larson
FAQs — Older Homes & Plumbing Risks
1. Do all older homes have cast iron plumbing?
Not all — but many do. Always verify through inspections and disclosure.
2. How expensive are cast iron repairs?
Pricing depends on location, severity, and access.
3. Is a hydrostatic test really necessary?
For older homes it is highly recommended to detect underground leaks. But there is significant risk to the homeowner, and this test requires Seller approval in writing. (In Texas we have a promulgated form.)
4. Should I avoid older homes entirely?
Not at all. Older homes offer charm, character, and great locations — they just require proper due diligence.
5. What if the seller refuses plumbing tests?
That’s a red flag. Consider protecting yourself by renegotiating or walking away.
Work With a REALTOR® Who Knows What to Look For
Buying an older home can be a wonderful decision, if you have the right information and the right people advocating for you.
When you work with the HART Realty Team, you get:
- An agent who recognizes plumbing red flags
- Relationships with trustworthy specialists
- Guidance during inspections
- Advice throughout negotiations
- Experience not guesswork
Older homes can be incredible investments BUT ONLY if you know what’s happening beneath the slab.
Visit HART Realty Team to work with a REALTOR® who protects your peace of mind.
