Plumbing in Older Sydney Homes: What to Watch For

Sydney's older homes, Victorian terraces, Federation houses and mid-century brick homes, have a lot of character and, often, plumbing that's decades past its original design life. Knowing what to look for can save you from expensive surprises.

Galvanised steel water pipes

Many homes built before the 1970s have galvanised steel water pipes, which corrode from the inside over time. The result is gradually reducing water pressure and rusty or discoloured water. If a home still has original galvanised pipework, budgeting for replacement is usually a question of when, not if.

Terracotta and clay sewer lines

Older homes often have terracotta or clay sewer pipes, which are joined in short sections. Those joints are exactly where tree roots first get in, and over decades the pipes can crack or collapse entirely. A CCTV inspection is the most reliable way to check the condition of an old sewer line before it becomes a problem.

Lead in old plumbing

Homes built before the 1930s may still contain lead pipes, and lead solder was used in copper pipework well into the 1980s. Lead in drinking water is a health concern, especially for young children. If you're renovating an older home, a plumber can advise whether any lead pipework should be replaced.

Outdated hot water and limited capacity

An old hot water system in an older home is often undersized for a modern household and near the end of its life. If you're buying or renovating, check the system's age and condition, and whether the home's existing gas or electrical supply can support a more efficient replacement.

Before you buy an older home

If you're considering an older property, a pre-purchase plumbing and CCTV drain inspection is a relatively small cost that can reveal issues like corroded pipes, root intrusion or a failing hot water system before they become your problem. It also gives you a realistic idea of any work to budget for.