Buying your first home in Worcestershire, Warwickshire or the West Midlands this summer?
Whether you’re moving into a new build in Stratford, a Victorian terrace in Worcester, or a countryside cottage near Alcester — don’t let plumbing and heating issues catch you off guard.
As local engineers working across the region every day, we know the kinds of problems that pop up in different types of homes — and how to spot them early.
Buying Your First Home? Here’s What to Check on the Heating and Plumbing Side
1. How Old Is the Boiler?
Boilers aren’t cheap to replace. If it’s over 10–15 years old, you might be looking at a new one in the near future.
Ask:
How old is the boiler?
When was it last serviced?
Is there a full service record?
💡 Tip: A well-maintained boiler should have annual
2. Do the radiator’s heat evenly?
Run your hand over each radiator (if they’re on). Cold spots can indicate sludge or trapped air — signs the system may need flushing.
Look out for:
Thermostatic radiator vales – also known as TRV
A central thermostat
3. What’s the Water Pressure Like?
Turn on the kitchen tap, bathroom tap, shower, and flush the toilet. Poor pressure might mean:
Outdated or damaged pipework
Issues with the stopcock or water main
A low-pressure system that could affect shower performance.
4. Are There Any Visible Leaks?
Look under sinks, behind the toilet, around the boiler, and under kitchen units.
Signs of concern:
Water stains
Rust or corrosion on pipework
Towel-wrapped joints (sometimes hiding a slow leak!)
5. Do the Bathroom and Kitchen Fixtures Work?
Check:
Taps run smoothly and don’t drip
Toilets flush correctly
Water drains quickly from sinks, bath and shower
If the bathroom looks tired or neglected, allow for future upgrade costs.
6. Is There a Gas Safety Certificate?
If the property has been rented or has gas appliances, ask for a Gas Safety Record. Not legally required for owner-occupied homes, but good practice to have.
If unsure, a quick Gas Safe inspection can offer peace of mind before you move in.
At Elgar Services we help first-time buyers across Worcestershire and the West Midlands. Whether it’s a quick check, a full inspection, or planning a bathroom upgrade — we’ve got your back.
🔧 Contact us today to ask a question