More room to roam, freedom from being packed in with neighbors, and a chance to reconnect with nature are just a few reasons to move away from the big city and into a more rural area. Unfortunately, unless you're specifically planning for a rugged lifestyle and not just escaping city traffic lights, there are a few services that need strong inspection and significant improvements before being comfortable. Here are a few plumbing and waste management issues to look out for in rural areas, as well as some suggested improvements.

Septic System Inspection

Septic systems have an unfortunate issue of being forgotten between tenants, or being forgotten completely. Underground septic tanks or well-concealed outdoor tanks can go unnoticed for years, all while unsuspecting homeowners deal with a buildup and leakage problem they may not even notice.

Some septic systems can even be disconnected but still pose a health risk. This happens when a previous owner or tenant decides to disconnect the old system for something more modern, but without getting a final cleaning. It isn't just individuals; septic tanks are a very old invention, and there's no telling how many septic companies have come and gone in the area before your arrival.

Treat any rural purchase as an unknown ground issue. Aside from contacting septic tank professionals, consider getting soil and water tests to figure out if any other leaks are happening in the area.

Plumbing Inspection And Possible Upgrades

Along with investigating any septic system issues, request a general plumbing inspection for any existing home purchase. Although there are a few water outlet and plumbing issues that can be checked on your own--such as clogged or leaking sinks, bathtubs, or toilets--there are still underground and building infrastructure plumbing concerns to worry about.

How urgent is the home sale? If you don't need the home immediately and the price is higher than expected, let the real estate agent or seller know that you'd prefer to have an inspection. The seller will likely either allow the inspection and consider giving you a price reduction for the work being done, or turn down the inspection. Turning down the inspection is a red flag to find another home.

It's best to have these inspections, repairs, and/or upgrades done before the initial sale. Although you have some legal recourse if the home is sold deceptively, that's a lot more legal work and potential losses than making sure you get a good deal to begin with.

Contact a septic tank and general plumbing professional, such as B & B Drain Tech Inc, to inspect a potential home purchase and give suggestions for possible plumbing improvements.