Agreed. There is a big difference between "I broke this" and "this broke when I touched it."
Plumbing is one big area for this. Modern production valves, especially gate valves and globe (stop) valves, are notorious for failing when they are finally used after years of inactivity. Valves should be regularly exercised, or they are guaranteed to fail when needed. These days, you should almost EXPECT to replace a shutoff valve when you replace your water heater or faucet. Feel lucky if you don't need to. If you want the most reliability, pay the little extra to get a ball valve.
