87% of buyers had concerns about buying a property with low pressure, but 57% said they had never tested a tap or shower during a viewing.
45% of buyers said they would be put off buying an otherwise suitable home if it had poor water pressure, according to research from Mira Showers.
87% of buyers had concerns about buying a property with low pressure, but 57% said they had never tested a tap or shower during a viewing.
Water pressure was the most common feature buyers forgot to check during a viewing at 25%, followed by broadband and mobile signal at 21%, and neighbours at 19%.
While water pressure was often overlooked, 28% said they would need to fix poor pressure straight away, and 49% would only tolerate it for a few days.
Robin Edwards, property buying agent at Curetons, said: “Water pressure is one of those things many buyers don’t think to check until they’ve moved in and started living with the consequences.
“A beautiful bathroom can quickly lose its appeal if the shower is little more than a trickle or it takes ages to fill a bath.”
51% of Brits did not know that homes on higher ground, in rural areas or with ageing infrastructure can be more prone to pressure issues.
Edwards added: “Geography can play a surprisingly big role; homes that are located on higher ground, in rural locations or in areas with ageing infrastructure are sometimes more prone to pressure issues.
“The key is identifying any issues before you buy, rather than discovering them on your first day in the property.
“During a viewing, don’t be afraid to turn on taps, flush toilets and test showers if possible.”
He said: “Your home is likely to be the biggest purchase you’ll make in your life, so don’t be shy.
“It’s also worth asking the seller whether they’ve ever experienced low water pressure, particularly during peak morning and evening periods, and whether the property runs on a combi boiler, gravity-fed system or mains pressure setup.”
