Moving into a HUD repossession has given us so many projects it’s difficult to focus at times.

However, we knew from the HUD report that we would have significant plumbing problems going in. HUD requires you to apply to turn utilities on for inspection and they denied turning on the water due to failed pressure tests.

We could have had the plumping worked on before moving, but we were anxious newlyweds who just wanted to be together and get to work on this house!

Since we moved in early August, we were without water for a month. Finding a plumber to take a look, provide a quote, or even answer the phone proved difficult. In the meantime, we showered at my mom’s house, filled gallon jugs, bucket bathed/camp showered, had a porta pot, used paper plates, and ate a lot of simple meals or fast food. Where there’s a will, there’s a way!

We finally called Royal Flush Piping to replace all our old copper water lines with PEX piping. We were ecstatic when we had running water!

Unfortunately, they immediately said our sewer lines weren’t in great shape either. There was an evident clog, and given the large galvanized pipes, rust and age along with being an abandoned house, unknown issues abound.

Once again, we faced the decision of spot-fixing or entirely replacing. We opted to start fresh. This involved tearing out all the old metal sewer lines all the way to the septic tank, and replacing with PVC lines. They even had to tear out a small section of sidewalk to access the piping. We have had an amazing experience with this company and all the work they do.

We shall celebrate ice water, hot showers, no more porta pots, laundry, and a flushing toilet! There are so many things we have lived without for over a month!