Hot Water Heater Repair

 

Whether you’re buying a new home or opening a new business, there are a lot of things you need to consider. One of the most important things you need to do is have a plumbing inspection. In addition to ensuring the water is safe, an inspection covers many other things as well. Plumbing is not all about pretty sinks and fancy showerheads. If you have leaking pipes or clogged drains that you don’t know about, these minor repairs need to be addressed before they become major expenses.

Plumbing Inspections Services

A plumbing inspection usually includes checking anywhere water runs in your home or business. This will include pipes, toilets, sinks, tubs and external and internal lines. Both inside and underneath your house, plumbers check the pipes and drains for possible leaks, as well as look for the appropriate support for proper protection during the winter.

Home Plumbing Inspection checklist

Although the process may differ slightly, the checklist is the same for both homes and businesses. It’s important to use this checklist to break down and itemize each area and appliance inspected. This is usually comes into play when buying or selling a property. As a home or business owner, you’re liable for any plumbing problems until the property is sold. In addition, you can be held liable for not disclosing any problems you knew about but failed to mention. 

During a visual examination, all of the visible components of your plumbing should be inspected. The plumber will confirm that everything is working properly and that all fixtures and appliances are up to code. They will also confirm that the water pressure is within normal range to all appliances.

 

The following elements will also be inspected:

– Faucets: In bathrooms, all faucets will be inspected. This includes the sinks, tubs and showers. Water lines are usually hidden behind the walls of tubs and showers, which can be problematic if leaks are not found. Hidden pipe leaks often show themselves with unpleasant signs of water damage in the area below the pipes. 

-Drains: Sink, shower and tub drains are prone to hair and soap clogs. During check, the plumber will ensure that your drains are free of debris. They may conduct a video inspection to get a better look. 

-Toilets: Since a toilet has multiple working parts, it’s not uncommon for them to wear out over time. During examination, all working parts of the toilet are inspected including, the fill tank, flapper, water valves and even the caulk around the base of the toilet. 

-Water Heater: The water heater will also be inspected to ensure it’s working properly and not leaking when in use. The water temperature is also checked as is the pressure relief valve. If it’s powered by gas, the plumber will ensure that the pilot light functions properly when ignited. If found to be malfunctioning, it will be reported immediately to you and written up on the report.

Video Plumbing Inspections

 

Thanks to technology advancements, video examinations allow plumbers to locate lost items, diagnose impending issues, and inspect the health of any septic systems. Video inspections can be used to look inside your sewer, drain lines, and sump pumps.

Plumbing Inspection Report

After review, the plumber will file a report outlining everything that was found during the assessment. The report should detail everything that was inspected, what is in good working condition, and what needs to be repaired. In addition, it should list each area separately and define all pipes, drains, water heaters, sump pumps and any other appliance or fixture that utilizes water.

Home Inspection Plumbing Problems

Similar to a home inspection, there are several plumbing problems that are routinely found upon examination. These can include the following:

-Piping: Pipes may be old, rusted or completely clogged. 

-Sewer lines: Sewer lines can be clogged, which can eventually back up into the home or business. The most common cause of clogged sewer lines is tree root growth, that will worsen over time. 

-Leaks: Even in newly renovated properties, it’s quite common to find leaks behind walls, which not only breeds mold and rots drywall, but also increases the water bill over time.

-Water Heater Issues: Most often, water heaters can be the wrong size, have high water pressure rusted on the inside or have a malfunctioning thermostat.

 

Average Cost of Plumbing Inspection

Since plumbing is one of the most expensive, and usually the most unexpected repairs people face, it’s important to have it checked. The most comprehensive scrutiny utilizes cameras to identify issues that may not be found on only visual inspection. 

Above all else, it’s important to hire someone who is properly trained, licensed and has the appropriate insurance. Several factors will determine the final cost of your assessment. These include visual assessments, mechanical assessments, septic and sewer assessments and outdoor assessments. 

Your plumbing may be out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind. Especially if you are buying or selling your home, or buying a new business, you need to be aware of any potential problems that may be present. If your plumbing needs a check-up, we’ve got you covered. Schedule a plumbing inspection, or to learn more about them, contact us today.