Eddie McCreary wrote:
My wife and I are considering buying a 30 year old home in Houston, TX
and just finished the structure inspection. The inspector pointed out
that the house has galvanized water pipes and that in the attic there
is one patch and one medium sized rust spot visible.

One friend, home repair guy, is of the opinion this is a deal breaker
and he wouldn't buy a home with galvanized pipe without a major
concession from the seller due to the possibility of leakage. Another
friend, an architect and former house inspector, doesn't feel this is
a big deal.

Not knowing much about plumbing, I did a bit of reading and from what
I gather eventually these pipes will have to be replaced buy it
probably isn't an urgent issue since there are no current problems and
the house is in otherwise great shape.

Does anyone else have any strong opinions on this?

thanks,
Eddie

I agree with Bob in that you should have a local plumber take a look and
give you some information. I would want the whole lot replaced. It appears
the pipes have reached the end of their useful life (based on the water
conditions in your area) so repairs are just going to be followed by more
repairs.

Now you need to decide about the house. Add in the cost of refitting
and add to the value of the house the security of new plumbing and ask
yourself if the price (including the replacement work) sounds like a good
deal for that house with nice new plumbing. If not, make a offer adjusted
for what you do believe it is worth.

--
Joseph Meehan

Dia duit