I purchased a home one week ago. I have a problem with the drains in the basement.I did have a home inspector inspect prior to purchasing this home. I had a plumber come in to examine the problem, he reported to me his opinion but did no work on the problem. It appears the laundry drain goes to a broken pipe in the floor and is leaking into the furnace room. It appears to have no vents.
The sewer drain is possibly broken and is plugged.
My question is since I have only had this house for one week what is, or is there, a statue of limitations? Where would you recommend I start with my phone calls and in which order?

The plumber told you there was a problem BEFORE you bought the house and you went ahead with the purchase?

OR the plumber gave his opinion AFTER the purchase?

I would first contact the home inspector AFTER reviewing the contract you have with him.

What exactly is the problem? Large or small? Apparently the previous owner lived with the problem so I'm not 100% sure it's something major enough for a lawsuit. Did the homeowner fail to disclose or hide a SIGNIFICANT defect?

(I would be speaking to the home inspector in a loud, shrill voice.)