What is a Plumbing Inspection and Why Should I Get One?

Let’s talk about one of the unsung heroes of home maintenance – the inspection plumbing process. Many folks in Seattle and the surrounding area might not think twice about it, chalking it up as just another line item on their to-do list, but skipping an this step could mean setting yourself up for a nasty surprise down the road. Imagine waking up to a flooded basement or a failed water heater just as the cold weather hits – suddenly, a simple home inspection plumbing seems like a small price to pay.

In this post, I’ll guide you through what a plumbing inspection is, the types available, and, most importantly, why it’s something you should consider. By the end, you’ll see how a proactive approach can protect your home, save you from emergency calls, and keep your house plumbing inspection in top shape.

Types of Plumbing Inspections

Visual Inspection

A visual examination is the most straightforward. I’ll walk around, examine the visible pipes, fixtures, and drains, and assess their condition. This often catches corrosion, leaks, and other surface-level issues. It’s an important first step because sometimes, all it takes is a quick look to spot early warning signs.

Camera Inspection

When a simple glance isn’t enough, we bring out the big guns — the camera plumbing and sewer inspection. We feed a tiny camera into your pipes, typically focusing on your drains and sewer lines. This allows us to see any blockages, root invasions, or pipe breaks that could cause backups or structural damage. These are particularly valuable for older homes or if you’ve experienced recurring clogs.

Why Should You Get a Plumbing Inspection?

Protect Your Home

One of my clients in Seattle called me about a ‘small leak’ in their basement. By the time I arrived, the situation was anything but small. A routine review of their pipes could’ve caught that leak early on and saved them thousands in repair costs. Regular plumbing testing helps spot small problems before they become big headaches. A professional eye can often detect things you might miss.

Selling or Buying a Home

If you’re planning to sell, a plumbing inspection can be a selling point – potential buyers like to know the home’s system is in top condition. On the flip side, if you’re buying, it is crucial. I can’t tell you how many clients have dodged bullet-sized plumbing issues thanks to pre-purchase examinations. A thorough final plumbing inspection gives you a clear understanding of any potential fixes or replacements so you can make informed decisions.

Avoid Costly Plumbing Emergencies

I always say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure – especially when it comes to inspecting your system. Water and sewer pipe examinations prevent those costly emergencies that tend to strike at the worst possible time. A busted pipe or a failing water heater isn’t just expensive; it can be downright disruptive.

What Does a Plumbing Inspection Include?

To get an idea of what we cover, here is a sample of our plumbing inspection checklist; 

• Check Permits: For any recent plumbing work, it’s good to confirm that permits were pulled and work was done up to code. This can save you from unexpected problems, especially if a licensed professional didn’t do the work.
• Water Heater Inspection: Water heaters often go unnoticed until they stop working. We’ll check for any signs of wear, leaks, or issues with temperature settings that could indicate a problem down the line.
• In-Depth Examination of Exposed Plumbing: From pipes under sinks to basement lines, we look for any signs of corrosion, damage, or leaks.
• Examine Fixtures and Caulking: Fixtures might seem harmless, but cracked caulking or loose fittings can lead to slow, insidious leaks. We make sure everything is tight and secure.
• Dishwasher Inspection: We’ll inspect the dishwasher for leaks or drainage issues, as these can go unnoticed and cause water damage over time.
• Examine Insulation: In Seattle’s cold seasons, pipe insulation is a must. We’ll check that your pipes are insulated properly to prevent freezing and bursting.
• Check for Lead Pipes: Lead pipes are still common in older homes. While the health risks are well-known, many people aren’t aware if they have lead pipes. We’ll inspect for lead and recommend safe replacement options if necessary.
• Video Inspection of Drains and Sewer Pipes: For a more comprehensive look at your drainage system, we’ll use a camera to check for clogs, cracks, or roots. This is especially valuable if you have old pipes or have noticed slow drains.
• Sump Pump Inspection: Your sump pump protects your basement from flooding, especially during Seattle’s rainy season. We’ll ensure it’s in good working condition.

Final Thoughts on Plumbing Inspections

In my years in the plumbing field, I’ve seen how regular water and sewer system examinations can make all the difference. A small, proactive investment can protect your home from costly damage and keep your system in check. Whether you’re a homeowner, a buyer, or just looking for some peace of mind, a plumbing inspection is worth every penny. Don’t wait for a disaster – get ahead of it with a simple, straightforward safety net that’ll save you time, money, and stress in the long run.