Evidence of earlier polybutylene supply piping, removal/remediation appears to have been occurred: There is evidence that an earlier water supply piping was a polybutylene system and a removal/remediation appears to have been performed. Such removals/remediation occur because of the documented problems with polybutylene. Although the installed supply piping is an improvement, it is not possible to identify the scope of the work. Consult with the homeowner to determine the extent of the replacement and related warranties.
Near/at end useful life, budget for replacement: The supply pipes are near or at the end of their useful life. We recommend establishing a budget to replace the supply pipes.
Past end useful life, budget for replacement: The supply pipes are past the end of their useful life. We recommend establishing a budget to replace the supply pipes.
Older solder joints may contain higher lead content, water likely has no high lead content, run water run to flush line, consider testing water for lead: Solder joints appear to be older and may contain a higher content of lead than permitted by current industry standards. However, it is likely that the water does not have a high lead content because minerals in the water tend to build up over solder joints and mitigate leaching of the lead. Consider running the water run for a few minutes to flush the line if water has not been in use for an extended period of time. Consider testing the water for lead, as lead is a serious health concern, particularly in infants and children <6 years old.
Galvanized steel water supply lines are present, past reliable service life, budget for replacement: Galvanized steel water supply lines are present. This supply pipe material has not been installed for many decades, and should be considered past its reliable service life. Absent observable water pressure or leak issues, it is not possible to determine its condition. You should budget for replacement.
Portions of the water supply piping are composed of lead, health and safety concern, hire specialist for water quality evaluation, budget for replacement: Portions of the water supply piping are composed of lead. This is a documented health and safety concern, especially if there are young children in the home. It is strongly recommended that you hire a specialist for a detailed water quality evaluation, and that you budget for replacement.
Polybutylene water supply piping is present, budget for replacement: Polybutylene water supply piping is present. It has had a higher than normal failure rate and is no longer being used. It is virtually impossible to detect installation problems during a home inspection and impossible to know if future problems may occur. Due to concerns surrounding this material, a specialized inspection of the Polybutylene piping is recommended. The specialist performing this inspection should address the integrity of the installation according to the manufacturer’s standards. Furthermore, it is suggested to have a proposal prepared to allow for a replacement budget to be considered.