A plumbing inspection can be a good idea for many reasons. Perhaps you hear a dripping sound that suggests your pipes are in trouble, or you’re buying a home and want to know whether the plumbing is one problem away from disaster. During a plumbing inspection, the plumber will examine all your sinks, toilets and outdoor fixtures. They will also check pressure relief valves, water temperatures and other important safety features.
Inspection of Water Supply
A plumbing inspection involves a thorough check of the water supply. It includes checking the main water shut-off valve and all faucets and fixtures to ensure they work properly. The inspector will also test the water pressure to make sure it is within a safe range. The plumber will check for any visible leaks in the pipes, and they may use a camera to inspect hard-to-see areas such as inside toilets or under sinks. They will also check to see if the water is discolored, which could indicate a problem with the plumbing system, such as a clogged sewer line. A professional plumbing inspection Wichita Falls TX, can catch problems missed during a regular home inspection, especially in older homes. If you plan to sell your home, a plumbing inspection can help you get top dollar for the property by demonstrating that all systems are in good working order. In addition, many mortgage companies require a plumbing inspection before they’ll-they’ll lend money to a prospective homeowner.
Inspection of Miscellaneous Plumbing Fixtures
Home inspectors look at a home’shome’s plumbing fixtures, checking that drains are empty and toilets flush. However, a plumber’s inspection checklist goes far beyond this.
For example, a plumbing inspection can detect lead pipes in older homes. These can be dangerous for children and pets and need to be replaced. A plumber will inspect fixture shut-off valves to ensure they work properly and shut off completely. It is especially important for kitchen faucets, which can waste hundreds of gallons of water yearly. A plumber will also examine outdoor hose fixtures, sump pumps, and all points where water enters or exits the house. A plumber may also recommend that the homeowner have a high-definition camera snaked into pipes or drains to check for blockages and other issues that are difficult to see with a visual inspection. It will save time, money, and headaches in the future. If problems are identified, they can be negotiated with the seller before closing the sale.
Inspection of Water Heaters
Unlike the standard home inspection, a plumbing inspection is a much more thorough examination of a property’s plumbing. A plumber will check the size, type, and location of pipes, drains, and fixtures. They will also test for water temperature and pressure and the functionality of toilets and faucets. It’s important to catch any minor trouble symptoms before they worsen. Otherwise, the cost of a repair can skyrocket. It is especially true in commercial buildings relying heavily on plumbing. The plumber will check all water heaters to ensure the pilot light works and the tank has sufficient capacity. They’ll also inspect the piping and connections for signs of wear and tear. If they cannot visually inspect the inside of pipes and drains, they may be able to snake a high-definition camera or an endoscope into them. It is more accurate than visual inspections and can reveal things like blockages or increasing sediment buildup that might not be apparent with a visual inspection alone.
Inspection of Drains
While it may be tempting to skip the plumbing inspection during a home purchase, you’ll only know what you’re missing if you have one. It’s not always easy to look down a drain or into dark pipes, but a plumber has special tools and high-definition cameras that allow them to see any issues that might be hiding. A plumber will check that the drains and sewer system are working properly, including testing the wastewater flow to ensure that it isn’tisn’t backflowing into the house. If they notice any signs of rust or corrosion, this could indicate a leak somewhere in the system, and it’s time to start thinking about replacements. A plumber will also ensure that all the faucets, showers, toilets, and tubs are in good condition. It includes checking for small leaks that can add up over time and cause big problems. If they find any, the plumber can alert the homeowner or seller so that these can be repaired before the situation escalates.