What’s Performed During a Plumbing Inspection?
Whether you’re buying a home or having your current home checked for problems, an examination of the plumbing system is a critical part of any home inspection. While different home inspectors will use various checklist, There are the critical items that are always part of the list. While some checks should only be performed by a qualified plumber or home inspector, as a homeowner, you can perform some of these checks yourself, By inspecting your plumbing you can find the little problems before they lead to expensive system failures or water damage.
Check the functioning of the main water supply valve. When the valve has been closed for a while with no plumbing fixtures being used. Check the water meter. If the meter has continued to run it often indicates a leak somewhere in the supply lines.
It’s also good idea to label the valve as “emergency water shut-off” and include instructions for the direction to turn the valve.
Examine plumbing fixtures, supply lines, and drains to ensure the system is watertight. Fill the entire drainage systems with water to the middle of a trip waste overflow of every tub installed to validate if plumbing systems are closely sealed.
Pressure test the piping. Ensure normal working pressure as water is passing through the water pipes. The water supply should run smoothly even at the minimum water pressure requirement. Ensure there is no air in the pipes or banging (water hammer) when operating plumbing systems.
Check the sewer and drainage lines. Assess the sewer lines from property to the main sewer line connection or septic tank. Inspect drainage systems for clogs, pipe damage or excessive corrosion. Perform a video inspection inside the drain and sewer lines to look for pipe damage such as cracks, clogs and tree root intrusion.
Inspect the sump pump. Ensure the pump is not obstructed or excessively dirty. Clear out any debris from the sump pump pit and fill the pit with water. The pump should automatically turn on and remove the water.
Make sure all fixtures have a separate valve to control the water supply.
Check for signs of water damage inside and outside the home. Check exterior drainage, including gutters, flexible hoses, and drains for obstructions that could affect plumbing systems or cause water intrusion into the homeowner.
In homes with a well, check the pressure valve for correct pressure and inspect the well tank for leaks or excessive corrosion. Ensure the well pump is operating correctly and not cycling on/off continuously or too frequently.
