If you’ve just bought — or are about to buy — an established home anywhere in North Brisbane, you’re likely getting more land, more space, or more charm than you’d find in a new estate.
But while you’re thinking about renovations, colour schemes, or landscaping plans — there’s one critical area many buyers overlook:
The plumbing.
It’s out of sight, easy to ignore, and often where hidden issues start to emerge in older homes. At RJT Plumbing & Gas, we’ve worked on homes in North Lakes, Morayfield, Kallangur, Burpengary, Narangba, and all over North Brisbane, and one thing’s consistent: plumbing issues are one of the most common — and expensive — surprises for new homeowners.
Here’s what you should be looking out for if you’re buying or have just moved into an established property.
1. How Old Is the Hot Water System?
Hot water systems in older homes are frequently neglected until they fail. Many we’ve replaced in the local area were already past their service life — some leaking, others simply struggling to keep up.
Look for:
- Visible rust or corrosion around the tank
- A system older than 8–10 years
- No tempering valve installed (required for compliance)
- Long recovery times or inconsistent temperature
Position matters too. If it’s installed in a tight space or behind a fence, it may be hard (or expensive) to replace when the time comes.
2. Check for Leaks and Signs of Water Damage
Plumbing leaks aren’t always obvious. We’ve walked through homes that looked spotless at first glance — until we opened a vanity or checked behind the toilet.
Key signs include:
- Swollen or soft cabinetry
- Mouldy smells in laundry or kitchen cupboards
- Water staining on ceilings or wall linings
- Persistent dripping taps or toilets that never stop filling
Don’t assume a tidy appearance means problem-free plumbing. It often hides quick cosmetic fixes.
3. What Kind of Pipework Are You Dealing With?
Plenty of homes around North Brisbane still rely on ageing pipework — old copper, galvanised steel, or early-generation plastic systems. We’ve replaced our fair share in places like Kallangur and Burpengary.
What to check:
- Are the pipes visibly corroded or brittle?
- Has the house had partial or full re-piping?
- Are there unexplained drops in water pressure?
Old pipes don’t always fail instantly — they degrade slowly. A small issue now could be a major burst line in a few months.
4. Is the Drainage System Doing Its Job?
Whether it’s blocked stormwater, dodgy downpipes, or gurgling internal drains — poor drainage in older homes is a common issue we’ve dealt with in areas like Morayfield and Narangba.
Make sure:
- Downpipes are actually connected to stormwater drains
- There’s no pooling water around the slab or garden areas
- Sinks and showers drain freely without noise or backflow
Poor drainage doesn’t just affect comfort — it can cause long-term structural issues and health hazards.
5. What’s Happening Outdoors?
In established homes, outdoor plumbing often gets overlooked — especially if the property has older garden beds, external taps, or irrigation lines.
Check:
- Are all garden taps working with good pressure?
- Any leaks in external lines or around hose connections?
- Planning a pool or extension? Do you know where the existing pipework runs?
We always recommend knowing your layout before you dig, pave, or build.
6. Water Pressure, Filtration & Seasonal Risks
Water pressure varies widely across North Brisbane. In some homes, it’s too strong — which can damage fittings. In others, it’s frustratingly low. And in winter, we tend to see more callouts than usual.
Why?
- Cold weather causes pipe materials to contract, revealing weak points in older joints and fittings
- Hot water systems work harder, increasing the chance of leaks
- Pipes that aren’t used often (like in guest bathrooms) can fail when put back into use
If you’ve just moved in this winter, now is the ideal time for a plumbing health check.
Also worth asking:
- Is there a pressure-limiting valve at the meter?
- Are there signs of mineral buildup at taps or shower heads?
- Has any kind of whole-house water filtration ever been installed?
Final Thoughts: A Plumbing Health Check Is Worth It
Buying an established home is a great move — more space, more charm, and often better value. But the older the home, the more important it is to know what’s going on behind the walls.
At RJT Plumbing & Gas, we offer detailed plumbing inspections and health checks for buyers and homeowners across North Lakes, Morayfield, Kallangur, Burpengary, Narangba, and the wider North Brisbane area.
Whether you’re mid-renovation, settling into a new place, or just want peace of mind — we’ll give you straight answers, local insight, and a clear plan.
Need a plumbing check-up on your new home?
Reach out to Reece from RJT Plumbing & Gas for a Plumbing Health Check
