Don’t Get Soaked: Why Ontario Homebuyers Must Ask About the Plumbing
If you're purchasing a home in Ontario, congratulations—you're investing in one of Canada's most vibrant and sought-after regions. But before you celebrate, ensure you ask one crucial question:
What kind of plumbing does this house have?
While plumbing might not be the flashiest feature in a home, it can be one of the most expensive to repair or replace. Some outdated or faulty materials are not only frowned upon by insurers—they're flat-out unacceptable.
Plumbing Materials That Can Jeopardize Your Insurance
Insurance providers in Ontario adhere to strict plumbing underwriting guidelines. If a home's plumbing system contains certain outdated or risk-prone materials, you might face higher premiums, limited coverage, or outright denial of insurance. That's a nightmare no new homeowner wants.
High-Risk Plumbing Materials:
Galvanized Steel: Prone to corrosion and reduced water pressure.
Lead: A major health hazard due to potential lead poisoning.
PEX (Pre-2010): Early versions had issues with fittings and connections, leading some insurers to be cautious.
Kitec: A defective product known to fail prematurely and cause severe water damage.
Polybutylene (Poly-B): Associated with leaks and failures, leading to higher insurance premiums or denial of coverage.
Cast Iron (for drains): Though durable, cast iron corrodes from the inside out, leading to blockages and eventual leaks.
Preferred Plumbing Materials:
Plumbing systems with the following materials are generally considered acceptable by insurers:
Supply Lines: Copper, CPVC, or PVC
Drains: PVC or ABS
If the listing mentions a "plumbing update," clarify whether it was a full update (complete replacement of all supply and drain lines) or just a partial one (only certain sections replaced). Insurers make a distinction—and so should you.
Key Questions to Ask Before Buying
When was the plumbing last updated?
What materials are used in the supply and drain lines?
Was the update full or partial?
Is there a recent plumbing inspection report available?
Final Tip: Bring in a Professional
Always have a licensed home inspector or plumber check the system before closing the deal. A few hundred dollars upfront could save you thousands down the line—not to mention the headache of battling an insurance claim denial.
Bottom Line for Ontario Buyers: The plumbing system might be hidden behind walls, but it shouldn't be hidden from your due diligence. Ask the right questions, insist on acceptable materials, and avoid surprises that could cost you your dream home—or worse, your insurance coverage.