Common plumbing problems for new homes (and what to do about them) 

13 January 2025

If you move into a home that’s just been vacated by the previous owners, you might expect one or two snags in the plumbing system. But when it’s a brand new build, constructed and plumbed by professionals using new, high-quality materials, you’d be forgiven for expecting perfection. Unfortunately, it’s not always plain sailing. Even if you’re the first person to step over the threshold as an occupant, you might still encounter one or two plumbing niggles that need sorting out.

We thought it would be a good idea to list the kinds of things that can happen in a brand new home that could throw a spanner in the works (hopefully not literally). From dodgy components to sloppy workmanship, if you encounter any of these issues from the get-go, you should contact the seller, builder or your utility provider immediately so they can sort them out.

Poor water pressure

Low water pressure can stem from wrongly sized pipes or obstructed flow in newly installed systems.  To resolve this, you should ask for the pipe diameters to be checked and ensure there are no blockages. Also, verify that pressure regulators are set correctly. Ask a professional to assess the installation against UK Building Regulations – there could be discrepancies.

Sometimes, poor pressure doesn’t affect just one property. In large developments, it’s not uncommon for pressure to be low in all homes. This is a more systemic issue, which will need sorting out as a group, as it’s likely that the mains itself isn’t under enough pressure. It can sometimes happen when a new development is added to an existing one, but uses the same mains pipes, which restricts flow to the whole estate.

Leaky taps

Dripping taps in a new home often result from loosely connected fixtures or defective components. Although they should have been checked by whoever installed them, it’s possible that some components ship from the factory with defects. Check the installation for tight seals and proper alignment, or replacing washers or O-rings may be necessary. 

Incorrectly installed pipes

New homes may suffer from improperly connected pipes, leading to leaks or restricted flow. Inspect all visible joints and ensure they are sealed correctly. If you can see or hear water dripping, you should get in touch with the developer, who should put it right. Pipes should meet UK Building Regulations standards, so this might not be a job you can tackle yourself. A qualified plumber can conduct a thorough check, ensuring compliance and offering peace of mind. 

Faulty plumbing fixtures

Fixtures like taps and toilets might not work due to manufacturing defects or incorrect installation. Test each fixture thoroughly and get any faulty items replaced or repaired. Proper installation to standards such as BS 6700 ensures that fixtures work efficiently and last longer.

Sediment buildup

Even in new builds, sediment can accumulate in plumbing if the system hasn’t been flushed adequately. Unfortunately, builders often leave pipes and other components lying around outside, and it’s easy for debris to build up inside them. Usually, leaving the taps running for a few minutes will flush out grime, but larger bits of detritus could cause blockages. If the water isn’t running clear after a quick flush, it will need closer inspection.

Inadequate drainage system 

Poor drainage design can cause wastewater backups and pooling. Assess the overall system layout, ensuring pipes are correctly sloped according to Part H of the Building Regulations. These issues are usually relatively straightforward to repair by modifying the angles and placement of overground drainage pipes and connections, although in more serious cases, the ground will need to be dug up.

Leaky pipe joints

These usually result from incorrect sealing during the initial setup. Have the system inspected and have any loose joints fixed, making sure appropriate materials are used. This should hopefully solve the problem.

Hot water system issues

Problems with hot water systems can range from incorrect thermostat settings to faulty installations. Check that the water heater is set to the correct temperature and that all components are in place. A heating engineer will be able to assess the whole system, from boiler and cylinders to radiators and thermostats. 

Toilet flushing problems

Misalignments or internal leaks can cause toilets not to flush correctly. Inspect and adjust the flushing mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Sometimes, the ballcock is set too high or too low, so the flush is either too weak or empties too much, meaning long waits between flushes. The inlet valve can also be adjusted to increase flow.

Noise from pipes

Unsecured pipes or sudden water stoppage can cause noise, known as water hammer. Installing water hammer arrestors and securing all pipes can fix this. It’s also possible that there is trapped air in the system, which can cause unusual noises. Try bleeding some radiators, and seek professional help.

Improperly insulated pipes

Unfortunately, some builders scrimp on the insulation on pipework to save a few pounds or minutes. On external pipes, that can lead to freezing and pipe damage in the winter; on hot water pipes, it can mean wasted energy and cool radiators. Ensure pipes are properly insulated using recommended materials for the various locations. You might be able to do this yourself, but take care when insulating hot pipes, and only do it when the heating is turned off and has cooled down.

Drainage venting problems

Improper venting can result in slow drainage and unpleasant odours. Check that vent pipes are correctly placed and not obstructed, again following Part H of the regulations. This is another job that’s definitely for a professional, ideally at the cost of the people who first installed it, as it’s a pretty basic oversight that simply shouldn’t happen in a new build. 

We hope your move to a new home is stress-free and the plumbing is all working fine. However, if you’ve landed on this page, the chances are that things aren’t quite going to plan. If you’re in the Milton Keynes area and need a plumbing job done properly, call in the professionals – Able Plumbing Solutions.