What SLC Homeowners Should Know About Plumbing in Their New Build

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of moving into a brand-new home. Everything is pristine, up-to-date, and built with modern standards in mind. But if you’re one of the many buyers of new construction homes in Salt Lake City, you should know that new doesn’t always mean perfect, especially when it comes to plumbing.

Whether due to rushed timelines, subpar installations, or untested systems, even new builds can come with hidden plumbing problems. Fortunately, Roto-Rooter is here to help homeowners navigate these issues early and keep their systems running smoothly for years to come.

Common Plumbing Pitfalls in New Construction

While you might expect older homes to have plumbing issues, new builds can present their own unique set of challenges. In some cases, fixtures or piping may be installed improperly due to tight construction deadlines or inexperienced subcontractors. Misaligned drain lines, poorly vented systems, or even incompatible materials can lead to slow drains, backups, or early pipe degradation. These are all problems that can be hard to spot during the initial walk-through or inspection.

Additionally, systems in new homes haven’t yet been stress-tested. You might not notice a leak or pressure problem until your household water demand increases. That’s why it’s a smart idea to have your new home’s plumbing evaluated by a trusted professional like Roto-Rooter soon after move-in. Early inspections can reveal problems that might otherwise result in costly repairs down the road.

How to Stay Ahead of Plumbing Issues

Preventive care is key when it comes to new build plumbing. After closing on your home, schedule a comprehensive plumbing inspection with a plumber. This should include checking for pressure irregularities, making sure drains are properly vented, testing water heaters and shut-off valves, and verifying that no materials were installed against code. Getting ahead of these details is the best way to prevent major issues from developing as your home settles.

You’ll also want to monitor your home’s water use during the first few months. If you notice inconsistent hot water, gurgling sounds in the drains, or unexpected spikes in your water bill, these could all be signs of plumbing problems that need to be addressed promptly. Roto-Rooter’s local Salt Lake City team has experience working with both new and historic homes, making them a reliable resource for ongoing care.

Landscaping and Exterior Drainage Considerations

New construction homes in Salt Lake City often feature brand-new landscaping that’s still in the process of settling. That means irrigation systems, downspouts, and yard grading may not yet be optimized for long-term drainage. If water is pooling near your foundation or backing up in your basement, it could point to issues with how stormwater is being routed away from the property.

Proper grading, sump pump installation, and exterior drain checks are essential to protecting your plumbing and avoiding future headaches. Roto-Rooter professionals can help evaluate your yard’s drainage and recommend solutions that align with your home’s layout and the region’s unique climate challenges.

Water Pressure Problems in New Builds

It’s easy to assume that everything in a new home should work perfectly, but water pressure is a frequent source of frustration—even in brand-new plumbing systems. In some new build plumbing setups, improperly sized supply lines or faulty pressure regulators can lead to water that’s too weak or too strong. Either condition can be a red flag: Low pressure makes daily tasks inconvenient while high pressure puts strain on pipes, fixtures, and water heaters.

If you’ve just moved into one of the many new construction homes in Salt Lake City and you notice inconsistent water pressure, Roto-Rooter can help. Our licensed professionals can test your system, adjust regulators, and ensure the pressure stays within a safe range. Catching these problems early helps prevent leaks, damage to appliances, and the need for costly repairs later on.

Plumbing Ventilation Issues

One often-overlooked issue in new build plumbing is improper venting. Plumbing vents allow sewer gases to escape safely through the roof and help maintain proper pressure in drain lines. In some new construction homes in Salt Lake City, rushed installation or design oversights can result in venting systems that are too small, poorly placed, or completely absent in certain fixtures.

These issues may not be obvious right away, but signs like gurgling drains, slow drainage, or persistent odors can indicate venting problems. Roto-Rooter’s experienced technicians can inspect your venting system to ensure it meets code and functions as it should. Proper ventilation not only protects indoor air quality, but it also helps your drains and toilets perform reliably.

Plumbing Upgrades Worth Considering

Even if your builder used standard, code-compliant materials, there may still be room for upgrades. High-efficiency fixtures can help conserve water while smart leak detectors provide peace of mind when you’re away from home. Depending on your lifestyle and household size, you may also want to consider upsizing your water heater or installing a water softener to combat Salt Lake City’s hard water supply.

A Roto-Rooter plumbing technician can walk you through these options and help tailor your home’s plumbing system to your specific needs. Making small improvements early on can pay off big in both performance and longevity, especially in Utah’s dry climate.

Trust Roto-Rooter for Long-Term Plumbing Success

Even in new construction homes in Salt Lake City, plumbing problems can arise when you least expect them. That’s why it pays to partner with a trusted name like Roto-Rooter because even in a brand-new home, your plumbing deserves expert care. Call Roto-Rooter today at 800-768-6911 for plumbing in your new construction in Salt Lake City.