The huge number of foreclosure properties on the real estate market has presented a unique and challenging situation for purchasers of these bank owned properties. Many desperate home owners attempted to seek revenge against their lender by inflecting expensive and often hidden damage on the properties they were forced to leave.The obvious, such as removal of fixtures, cabinets, toilets, appliances and water heaters is readily identifiable and noted on the cursory home inspection report. The real problems present themselves after the new owner takes possession. With the Kitec plumbing class action affecting over 37,000 homes in Las Vegas, many new home owners will be faced with re-piping their entire residence at considerable expense. Removing defective Kitec plumbing and re-piping a single family dwelling averages from $6,000 to $10,000, depending on the home size and design.
REO properties are sold "as is" with no duty to disclose defects.Without an invasive camera inspection of the wall cavities to view the existing water lines and their condition, purchasers are exposing themselves to a huge risk. Additionally, many angry residents, prior to losing their home, poured chemicals, paint, plaster, and even concrete into the drains, toilets and sewer system.

Make sure you advise your buyers to request a plumbing system inspection by a licensed plumbing contractor, not just a home inspector. The plumbing inspection report will specify all the plumbing issues and costs to make repairs. Only a camera inspection can detect and locate serious issues. It could be the best $279 your buyer has ever spent, as it could save thousands of Dollars in hidden damage repair costs.