Getting your plumbing inspected is an important part of home maintenance and improvements. Passing an inspection helps ensure your plumbing is up to code and functioning properly. Preparing adequately can make the inspection process smooth and hassle-free. Here are some tips on how to get your plumbing ready for inspection.
Research Local Plumbing Codes
The first step is to research the plumbing codes in your area. Most locations adhere to the International Plumbing Code (IPC) but may have additional local amendments. You can usually find your local plumbing code through the city or county government website. Some key areas the code will address include:
- Pipe materials and sizing
- Fixture units
- Venting requirements
- Water pressure
- Proper drainage slope
Reading through the applicable codes will give you a checklist of what the inspector will be looking for.
Inspect All Fixtures and Drain Lines
Thoroughly inspect all plumbing fixtures in the home like faucets, toilets, showers, tubs, sinks, etc. Check for proper operation, leaks, and damage. Make repairs or replacements as needed.
All drain lines should be free flowing. Check for clogged or slow drains and use a drain snake to clear out any debris or buildup. Flushing drain lines with hot water and baking soda can help remove grease or soap residue.
Check Water Supply Lines
Inspect all water supply lines for damage and leaks. Look for corroded or worn fittings, damaged pipe insulation, or water staining which may indicate a leak. Repair any issues found.
Also check water pressure at all fixtures. Pressure should be between 30 to 80 psi. If pressure is too low, inspect your water pressure regulator.
Test Venting System
Your plumbing venting system helps drain lines flow properly and avoids siphonage or gurgling. Pour water rapidly down drains throughout the home and listen for gurgling which may indicate vent blockage.
Inspect vent pipes on the roof for damage. Make sure vent caps are not clogged by debris. Having a vent inspection camera run through vents can identify any hidden issues.
Check Gas Lines
For homes with natural gas, inspect all visible gas lines and fittings for corrosion, damage, or leaks. Use a soapy water solution on fittings to check for small bubbles which indicate leaks. Contact the gas company immediately if a leak is found.
Also have the gas company do a pressure test to check for leaks if lines are due for replacement. Let the inspector know if any gas line work was completed since the last inspection.
Label Plumbing Lines
Make sure all water supply and drain lines are properly labeled. Shut-off valves should indicate which fixtures they supply. Drain line access points should note which drains they service.
Color coding with pipe tape can help identify hot and cold water lines. This allows the inspector to easily identify plumbing components.
Clean Out All Drains
Completely clean out all drains in the home. Remove any hair, grease buildup, soap residue, or other debris that may have accumulated over time. This allows the inspector to view the drain interior clearly.
Consider having drains professionally cleaned and cleared if there is excessive buildup. Take care not to scratch or damage the drain interiors while cleaning.
Remove Access Panels
Find and remove access panels to expose shut-off valves, traps, junctions, and any hidden plumbing components. The inspector will need clear access to thoroughly check your plumbing system.
Check that all access panels can be fully removed and then properly reinstalled. Repair or replace panels that are stuck, broken, or missing.
Gather Relevant Paperwork
Have paperwork ready for any plumbing work done since the previous inspection. This includes copies of permits, invoices from licensed plumbers, warranty information, and any required certifications.
Also gather documentation showing conformance with local plumbing codes for any installations or replacements. Contact previous contractors if necessary to get copies of paperwork.
Thorough preparation is the key to passing your plumbing inspection. Following local code, making necessary repairs, and ensuring full access can help the inspection process go smoothly. Take the time to properly prepare and you can have full confidence in your plumbing systems.
Know When to Hire a Professional
Some plumbing issues may be beyond the DIY scope. Many jurisdictions require a licensed plumber for major repairs or installations. Know your abilities and when to call in a professional.
Complex projects like installing a new water heater or repiping supply lines can have many code requirements. Hiring a licensed plumber ensures proper permitting and execution per local regulations. They can also handle tricky tasks like soldering copper pipes safely.
Professionals have the right tools and cameras to fully inspect hidden plumbing components. This allows them to diagnose issues you cannot see or access. It’s worth the cost for the peace of mind of knowing your plumbing system is sound.
Ask Your Inspector for Tips
Get advice from your inspector on specific ways to prepare your home. They can point out common deficiencies they see which you can address ahead of time.
Ask if there are certain high priority areas they focus on like proper venting, water pressure, or drain slope. Their inspection emphasis may reflect prevalent plumbing issues in your area you should pay special attention to.
Gaining inspector insights helps align your preparation with their testing approach. This improves your chances for a smooth and successful plumbing inspection.
Review the Inspection Checklist
Most inspectors from certified home inspector in Fort Worth TX work from a standard checklist going through the various plumbing components and tests. Ask for a copy well beforehand so you understand exactly what the inspection entails at each point.
Having the checklist keeps you focused on the right tasks during preparation. You can go through each item methodically to get your plumbing inspection ready.
Familiarize yourself with how testing procedures are conducted, like checking drain slope by water flow rates. Being informed on the process reduces surprises down the road.
Consider Scheduling a Video Inspection
Many plumbers now offer video drain inspections using specialized waterproof cameras. This allows them to assess the interior condition of drain lines.
Video inspections help identify any concealed issues within pipes like cracks, blockages, root intrusion, or other damage. Make repairs well before your final inspection to address any hidden problems.
While pricier, a video drain inspection provides total clarity on your underground drainage system. This reduces the risk of inspection surprises from undetected problems.
Allow Extra Time for Unexpected Issues
Even with thorough preparation, unexpected plumbing issues can arise during inspection. Leave a buffer window when scheduling so you have adequate time to address any surprise deficiencies spotted.
Having a licensed plumber on standby allows immediate repairs if needed to pass inspection on the first attempt. This avoids delays from postponed or re-inspections.
Building in flexibility helps take the stress out of the plumbing inspection process. Staying adaptable is key for a house pass on the first try.
Celebrate Passing with Plumbing Upgrades
Once everything checks out, celebrate a successful plumbing inspection by investing in upgrades. This keeps your system running efficiently for years to come.
Consider touchless faucets, low-flow showerheads, insulated pipes, and advanced toilets. Smart monitoring systems like leak detectors, remote shut-off valves, and water usage trackers are now available too.
Schedule yearly drain cleanings and get into the habit of preventative plumbing maintenance. Take pride in your inspection-ready plumbing to get the most value from your home.
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