Home Plumbing Inspection Tips

Home plumbing inspection tips for the bathroom, kitchen, septic system, or city sewer, pipes, and water heater, help homebuyers avoid problems with a home's plumbing system. Whether you're a current or prospective homeowner, you probably already realize that the health of your home's plumbing is crucial. Well-functioning pipes and appliances can increase the value of your home, avoid problems in the short term, and help you maintain control over your household costs. Neighborhood Plumbing created this checklist to get you off to a good start. If your inspection requires any plumbing repair, we can help.

Bathroom

Take a close look at the sink and shower drains. If they look clogged or slow-moving, it could be because of something stuck in them, such as hair or food particles. Remove any blockage and run hot water through them to remove any remaining debris. Are any fixtures discolored? Are there any signs of leaks in fixtures? Flush the toilet, and open the back - does everything appear to be working correctly?

Kitchen

Check out your kitchen faucet and ensure it's free of leaks. If water is dripping, tighten the screw on the handle by turning it clockwise with a wrench until it stops dripping. If you have a leaky sprayer hose under the sink, replace it with one from your local hardware store before tightening down on the new hose with pliers until no leaks are coming out of it anymore. Inspect for leaks under the sink or around appliances such as dishwashers or garbage disposals. Also, look for mold or mildew around drains, faucets, and water supply lines, and these could indicate a problem with moisture getting into walls or insulation.

Septic System or City Sewer

A home plumbing inspection will include a review of the type of sewer system you have and whether it needs any work. There are two types of sewer systems: septic systems and city sewers. A septic system uses a tank that drains waste into the ground where it decomposes naturally, while city sewers use pipes to take waste directly from your home to the main line on the street. You may wish to bring on a skilled plumber to inspect the septic system.

Types of Pipes

There are several different types of pipes used in residential homes. Copper pipes are one of the most common types in homes today, as they are easy to install and relatively inexpensive. However, they tend to corrode over time and can develop leaks if not properly maintained. Copper piping is usually replaced every 50 years due to this corrosion factor and may need to be repaired sooner than expected if left untreated.

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes are another common type in residential homes today. PVC piping tends to last longer than copper piping, but it does not rust over time, making it more durable overall than copper piping. PVC piping is also less expensive than copper pipe. The only downside to using PVC piping is that it is not as durable as metal or copper. Due to this, it may be more prone to cracking or bursting under pressure than other materials.

Type, Age, and Condition of Hot Water Heater

• Type: There are two main types of water heaters: electric and gas. Electric heaters use an electric element to heat the water, while gas-powered units use natural gas or propane to heat the water.
• Age: A typical lifespan for an electric water heater is eight to twelve years, while a gas heater can last between ten and fifteen years. However, some units may fail earlier than expected due to improper installation or maintenance.
• Condition: You must regularly inspect your water heater for leaks and corrosion because these problems can cause costly damage if not addressed promptly.

Neighborhood Plumbing

When looking for a professional plumbing inspection, finding a company with the right resources for your needs is essential. Neighborhood Plumbing can offer professional plumbing inspections for your home or business. We have the skills and experience needed to inspect your property and give you an honest assessment of what needs to be done