Property that has had the water shutoff - how to protect?

[Todd Heintz]

Hello BP team:

We are considering a couple of properties that have had the water shutoff for in one case almost 3 years.  We are in the northern part of Illinois so freezing pipes are a concern.  One is a foreclosure and the other is an off-market deal.

My question is what is the best way of protecting ourselves from the possibility of finding split pipes? Note: In both cases there is no sign of any winterizing.  The meter has been removed from the property.  

• Contract language?
• Insisting they turn the water back on before we close?  (I don't see the bank doing that and I am not sure I want to incur that expense either. Maybe.)
• Using this unknown to negotiate a better deal to cover the cost of repairs if in fact there was an issue?
• Any other ideas?

Thank you in advance for your advice.

Best Regards,

Todd