The number of elements you have to consider when buying a new house can seem endless, but while location, layout and price are important, there's another key element you should inspect while searching for homes: the plumbing system.

You don't want the joy of buying a home to come crashing down when you discover unexpected plumbing problems. Use this checklist while looking at houses to identify any potential plumbing issues.

• Check for water pressure in all bathrooms by flushing the toilets and turning on the showers. The toilet should empty and fill without difficulty, and the shower should be able to spray hot water.
• Note any dripping water from plumbing fixtures, including under the sink, as this may be a sign of a leak.
• Also check for leaks by looking around fixtures such as toilets, bathtubs and dishwashers for signs of cracked or warped flooring and walls.
• Inspect the water heater for signs of corrosion or rust. Ask how old the water heater is and when it was last serviced. If it is more than 10 years old, it likely needs to be replaced.
• Measure the pipes to determine water pressure. For high enough pressure, you'll want at least three-fourth-inch pipes from the water source to the home.
• Find out where sewage goes, usually either to the city sewer system or a septic tank, and when the main line was last serviced.

This checklist will help you discover most problems, but you may want to get a full home inspection from a licensed plumbing expert before you move in. Whether you'd like to set up a home inspection or arrange for repairs or upgrades once you buy the home, call David Gray Plumbing at (904) 467-0784 or visit us at davidgrayplumbing.com