What We Inspect
A secure plumbing system is crucial to the water supply and wastewater disposal (sewage). Your inspector will visually inspect and test plumbing details to assure a safe water delivery system is in place, no visible leaks are present or conditions that may promote the growth of fungus or mold or cause structural damage. In addition, they will check that sewage flows are clear and connected to safe and approved collection or disbursement systems like public sewage systems or septic tank.
Plumbing Items Inspected
- interior water supply and distribution systems including fixtures and faucets.
- interior drain, waste, and vent systems including fixtures.
- water heating equipment and hot water supply systems.
- vent systems, flues, and chimneys.
- fuel storage and fuel distribution systems.
- sewage ejectors, sump pumps, and related piping.
Understanding The Process
Overall, your home inspector is looking to identify material defects. A defect may be a repair, maintenance or improvement consideration with or without a safety association.
Know The Details
Your written report will describe the interior water supply, drain, waste and vent piping materials. The water heater equipment including energy sources like gas or electricity will be included in the report. Water and fuel shutoff valves will be identified. Every property owner needs to know these locations in the event of a natural disaster.
During the inspection, your inspector will determine whether the water supply and sewage are public or private, verify adequate water supply flow and pressure and will also check shower pans and fixtures for leaks.
However, a professional inspector checking for leaks is likely to look at these connections wherever freely visible. These systems sometimes require specific inspections outside the scope of your home inspection.
Stay Safe From Leaks
A detailed plumbing inspection is an integral component of your property inspection. Take a look at the other 101 introductions to learn what else your home inspector sees when he takes a professional look at your property.
If you require additional system inspections such as for the septic tank, your inspector may be able to refer you to a local professional.
As thorough as this inspection seems, your home inspector is not required to check fixtures and systems outside of basic plumbing:
- washing machine connections.
- water conditioning systems and filters.
- water heating equipment and hot water supply systems.
- Interior of vent systems.
- renewable energy water heating systems.
- quality of well or septic systems.