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Plumbing Installation

By
Home Inspector with StepByStep Home Services LC

  Finding areas where one contractor installed their systems without regards to other areas is fairly common for all of us. Looking for these areas is part of our job. Most of the time it's a minor issue like a notched drawer to make room for a plumbing trap. Sometimes it can be a big no no like a notched joist to make room for an air return or cut trusses to make room for the whole house fan.

Basement BathroomRecently during a Canton Michigan Home Inspection  I noticed the builder was nice enough to make provisions in the basement for a bathroom, as is common in new construction, should the owners decide to finish the basement. Drains were there extending above the floor as they should be. But for reasons unknown they were inches from the stairwell and a foot or so from the water heater and furnace. My guess is someone didn't review the blueprints?? The homeowner can probably get away with the bathroom installation but it will be a tight squeeze. I don't think there's even enough room for a 2x4 between the shower drain and the stairwell.

 

Comments (6)

Carl Winters
Canyon Lake, TX

Vince: You would think they would use common sense or maybe they need to visit the eye doctor. We do see some unusual things even in a new home that is being built.

Jan 27, 2010 12:57 AM
Not a real person
San Diego, CA

Too funny, yet also sad. I have met a few general contractors who didn't have a clue as to how to read a blueprint.

Jan 27, 2010 03:16 AM
Vince Santos
StepByStep Home Services LC - Canton, MI
Southeast Michigan Home Inspector

Carl - All in a days work.

Russel - My guess is it was a matter of not even attempting to look at the blueprint.

Jan 27, 2010 08:21 AM
Jim Mushinsky
Centsable Inspection - Framingham, MA

Hi Vince.  Nice photo.  I have seen this type of planning for future complications, I mean expansion.

Jan 27, 2010 03:33 PM
Vince Santos
StepByStep Home Services LC - Canton, MI
Southeast Michigan Home Inspector

Jim - I've seen odd placement but this one took the cake.

Jan 27, 2010 11:03 PM
Gene Allen
Fathom Realty - Cary, NC
Realty Consultant for Cary Real Estate

Isn't it the thought that counts?  Well maybe not in this case.

Feb 04, 2010 01:41 AM