Galvanized water lines
Galvanized steel was a common water line material until about the 1960s. It rusts from the inside, which can lower water pressure and discolour water. Many owners replace it with copper or plastic. Ask whether it has been replaced and get a plumber’s quote if not.
Sewer connections
Older sewer connections can crack, sag or let roots in. A sewer camera inspection is a small cost compared with a repair, and it shows the line’s condition before you remove subjects.
Oil tanks
Many North Shore homes built before about 1960 were heated with oil. An abandoned tank can leak, and clean-up is the owner’s cost. Ask for proof of removal or order a tank search.
Asbestos
Some building materials used before about 1990 can contain asbestos. It is usually a concern only when disturbed, so test before you renovate or demolish.
City records are a starting point
Municipal records can be incomplete or out of date. A licensed home inspector and plumber confirm what is really there.