Prevent a small problem (which you never want) from becoming a large one (which can be expensive) with a plumbing inspection.
Your toilets flush, your shower is warm, and your faucet isn't dripping. Why would you need a plumbing inspection?
To prevent a small problem (which you never want) from becoming a large one (which can be expensive), of course! This way, you can limit the number of times you wake up with no water in your sink or only cold water in your shower.
Plus, a minor leak may cost $1,000 or more to fix, but the average water damage claim costs more than $10,000. …you’re calling your plumber right now, aren’t you?
So what happens during a plumbing inspection?
What to expect from a plumbing inspection
A licensed plumber inspects all your plumbing system and fixtures, including but not limited to:
Hot water heater.
Faucets.
Water supply lines.
Water shut-off valve(s).
Toilets.
Drains.
Washing machine.
And sump pumps (if you have them).
Additionally, all drainage points are checked, including sink traps, hot water heaters, washing machine lines, faucet aerators, and garbage disposals.
A professional plumber will be able to test for any leaks, corrosion, mold, and blockages throughout your home's plumbing system, and often, you'll even be able to watch a video inspection of your sewage line.
You should also receive a detailed report with any suggestions or changes you should make to improve or maintain your plumbing system. Depending upon your home's budget, you can determine which projects you need to complete (like updating your pipes to be PEX) and which projects you can complete.
Performing a DIY plumbing inspection
While we recommend a professional plumbing inspection, there are a few parts of the inspection you can conduct yourself. Just remember to wear clothing that can get dirty and to have a flashlight handy.
Start at your water meter
Know where your water meter is and know how to read it. Then check that the main shut-off valve is working. When you close the valve, water shouldn’t flow from any taps in your home.
Check temperature and water pressure
Run the shower that is farthest from the home's water source and check the temperature and water pressure. Does the pressure seem as strong as it should be? If not, you might want to check your hot water heater for mineral deposit buildup.
Quick home maintenance tip: You should drain your hot water heater at least once a year to remove any sediment buildup, which can also cause clogs or issues inside your tank. If you’re not sure how to do this, call a licensed plumber. They can walk you through the process for future maintenance.
Savvi bridges the gap between problem detection and problem resolution. We can connect with a nationwide network of verified service professionals who can be on your doorstep immediately and start the process of making things right again. This gives you the peace of mind knowing that you hired a pro that has been vetted and is held to the highest industry standards.
Investigate additional leaks
Check drains, sink traps, and visible pipes for signs of small leaks or issues. Feel for moisture behind and under all sinks, toilets, and appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers. Check kitchen and bathroom faucets for leaks or drips, and also check your garbage disposal for clogs.
While it’s important to always check for plumbing issues, Savvi helps you gain peace of mind with our water leak sensors. Beautifully designed, our sensors fit neatly under sinks, washing machines and any water source in your home. Our water sensors alert you so that a small trickle doesn’t become a major flood.
Flush the toilets
Flush the toilet in each bathroom. They should empty and then refill correctly. If you’ve noticed a recent bump in your water bill, hire a licensed plumber to investigate. One of your toilets may be running and increasing your bills.
Look up!
Inspect ceilings beneath upstairs bathrooms and laundry rooms for signs of water damage, but by the time you see any damage, you might already have a large issue. Call a licensed plumber immediately.
Inspect your sump pumps
Sump pumps help to keep your basement and home free from water, and a well-maintained one can last upwards of 20 years. To make sure your sump pump works, inspect the pumps for any buildup of debris and ensure the motor runs smoothly.
Also, check to see if the unit’s plugged into a GFCI outlet to avoid shock hazards or electrocution, and if your sump pump is approaching 20 years, consider replacing it. You’d rather be safe than live with mold and water damage.
Plumbing inspection costs
A plumbing inspection costs on average $200; however, it can cost as much as $400 or as little as under $100. Unfortunately, that doesn’t include the cost for any repairs, but as we mentioned earlier, the average water damage costs more than $10,000. That means some cost thousands more, so the cost of the plumbing inspection is worth the convenience and peace of mind.
Savvi Insurance Group, Inc., based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is committed to helping families and individuals prevent losses, stay safe, and protect the people and things they love. We do that by providing our customers with our cutting-edge smart home security system along with a suite of services and benefits designed to proactively predict and prevent losses from happening in the first place.
We then back that up with comprehensive, modernized insurance protection and concierge-style claims handling, at prices that recognize and reward the benefits of a smarter, better protected home.
Originally published on vipHomeLink.com