Plumbing Inspection – Common Issues and How to Fix Them

A plumbing inspection is crucial for maintaining a home’s plumbing system, preventing costly repairs, and ensuring water efficiency. Whether you’re a homeowner, real estate investor, or homebuyer, understanding what a plumbing inspection covers, its cost, and the common issues found can save you time and money. 

What is a Plumbing Inspection?

A plumbing inspection is a comprehensive checkup of your home’s plumbing system to identify potential issues like leaks, blockages, or pipe damage. It includes evaluating water supply lines, drainage systems, water heaters, and fixtures to ensure everything is functioning efficiently and meets safety standards.

Why is a Plumbing Inspection Important?

1. Prevents major repairs by identifying early warning signs.
2. Ensures water efficiency, reducing waste and lowering bills.
3. Enhances property value by ensuring plumbing is in good condition.
4. Necessary for homebuyers to avoid costly surprises after purchase.
5. A key part of a building inspection, ensuring all plumbing systems meet safety and efficiency standards.

Plumbing Inspection Report

After an inspection, the plumber provides a detailed report outlining any issues found. A typical plumbing inspection report includes:

1. Condition of pipes, faucets, and fixtures
2. Presence of leaks, rust, or corrosion
3. Water pressure and flow rate analysis
4. Drainage system performance
5. Hot water system efficiency
6. Any code violations that need fixing

This report is crucial for homeowners and buyers as it helps in planning maintenance or negotiating home prices based on plumbing conditions.

Plumbing Inspection Cost

The cost of a plumbing inspection depends on the property size, the complexity of the system, and the location. Here’s an estimated breakdown:

• Basic Home Plumbing Inspection ($100 – $250)
• Sewer Camera Inspection ($250 – $500)
• Full Property Plumbing Inspection ($300 – $600)

Factors Affecting Cost:

1. Size of the home (more bathrooms = higher cost)
2. Need for specialized tools like camera inspections
3. Urgency (emergency inspections may cost more)

What Plumbing Can I Do Myself?

While a professional plumbing inspection is recommended, some basic plumbing tasks can be done by homeowners to maintain the system and prevent issues:

DIY Plumbing Maintenance Tasks:

1. Checking for leaks – Inspect under sinks, behind toilets, and around pipes.
2. Unclogging drains – Use a plunger or a drain snake to clear minor blockages.
3. Replacing washers and seals – Fix dripping faucets by changing worn-out washers.
4. Cleaning aerators – Unscrew and clean faucet aerators to improve water pressure.
5. Inspecting the water heater – Flush it annually to remove sediment buildup.

When to Call a Plumber?

1. Major pipe leaks or burst pipes: Immediate fixing and waterproofing may be required to prevent water damage.
2. Sewer backups and bad odors from drains: Professional cleaning and repairs needed.
3. Water heater malfunctions: Requires expert troubleshooting to restore efficiency.
4. Low water pressure in the entire house: Could indicate hidden leaks needing urgent fixing.

Plumbing Inspection Points – What Does It Cover?

A professional plumbing inspection typically covers the following areas:

1. Water Supply System

• Checks for leaks or damaged pipes
• Tests water pressure and flow rate
• Inspects water filtration and softener systems

2. Drainage & Sewer System

• Looks for slow drains and blockages
• Inspects sewer lines with cameras (if needed)
• Checks for tree root intrusion

3. Fixtures & Appliances

• Examines toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and showers
• Tests dishwasher and washing machine connections
• Inspects garbage disposals

4. Water Heater Inspection

• Checks for leaks and rust on the tank
• Tests water temperature and pressure relief valve
• Flushes sediment buildup if needed

5. Outdoor Plumbing

• Examines garden hoses and outdoor faucets
• Inspects irrigation and sprinkler systems
• Ensures proper drainage to prevent water damage

Common Plumbing Issues Found During Inspections

Plumbing inspections often uncover these common problems:

1. Leaky Faucets & Pipes 🚰 – Wastes water and increases bills.
2. Running Toilets 🚽 – Can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day.
3. Clogged Drains 🛁 – Caused by hair, grease, or foreign objects.
4. Faulty Water Heaters 🔥 – Issues like no hot water or sediment buildup.
5. Low Water Pressure 💧 – Can indicate pipe leaks or mineral buildup.

How to Fix Common Plumbing Issues

Here are some quick fixes for common plumbing issues:

1. Leaky Faucets: Replace the washer or cartridge inside the faucet.
2. Clogged Drains: Use baking soda and vinegar or a plunger to clear minor blockages.
3. Running Toilet: Replace the flapper valve to stop water waste.
4. Water Heater Issues: Flush out sediment buildup every year.
5. Low Water Pressure: Check for leaks or clean the aerator in faucets.

Final Thoughts

Regular plumbing inspections help prevent expensive repairs and maintain your home’s water efficiency. Whether you’re buying a new home or maintaining your current property, understanding the plumbing inspection report, cost, and common issues can save you time and money. While some minor fixes can be done yourself, major plumbing problems should always be handled by a professional inspector to ensure all safety and efficiency standards are met.