Don't fix what is not broken or pre-emptively fix it before it can be broken?

[Allan Wu]

Hi BP -- I'm currently working on my first House Hack. I'm debating whether or not to fix old sewer waste pipe. It is a huge ticket item and can eat ~30-40% of my reno budget.

Today I did a walk through with plumbers and contractors. My new property is in a small urban town near NYC. During inspections and walk-throughs with professionals the ancient waste sewer line were flagged as an issue because it is very old, probably cast iron or something. I've done camera work and the plumber said they see light root growth, but I could clean the pipes annually to prevent growth and back ups. They suggested while the property is vacant it is easier to repair, which costs 10-15k. 

The professional recommendations fell into two buckets. Replace it before it breaks and while the property is vacant. The second bucket is jet clean it twice a year for $300-$600 and install a flapper valve that prevents it from backing up. This way i can put more money into the kitchen and bathrooms that will increase my property value.

Hoping for some additional thoughts.

[Chris Seveney]

Quote from @Allan Wu:

Hi BP -- I'm currently working on my first House Hack. I'm debating whether or not to fix old sewer waste pipe. It is a huge ticket item and can eat ~30-40% of my reno budget.

Today I did a walk through with plumbers and contractors. My new property is in a small urban town near NYC. During inspections and walk-throughs with professionals the ancient waste sewer line were flagged as an issue because it is very old, probably cast iron or something. I've done camera work and the plumber said they see light root growth, but I could clean the pipes annually to prevent growth and back ups. They suggested while the property is vacant it is easier to repair, which costs 10-15k. 

The professional recommendations fell into two buckets. Replace it before it breaks and while the property is vacant. The second bucket is jet clean it twice a year for $300-$600 and install a flapper valve that prevents it from backing up. This way i can put more money into the kitchen and bathrooms that will increase my property value.

Hoping for some additional thoughts.

 Depends on how much risk you want to take. If it breaks when someone is in there, what is the rental income you would lose and how long would it take?

IF you are getting $2500/mo and it takes 2 months to fix and it still costs $10,000. Basically you can fix it now and spend the $10k or as mentioned spend the $ to jet it and then realize it will cost 50% more down the road because of rental loss.