Plumbing inspection and code compliance services identify corroded supply lines before they fail, catch unlicensed drain-waste-vent modifications that won’t pass building department review, and document gas piping condition for pre-purchase due diligence or permit close-out. Bonded Plumbworks’ licensed plumbers run RIDGID SeeSnake cameras through sewer lines, check pressure with Watts DP-IWTG gauges, and scan for hidden leak points with FLIR thermal imaging — delivering a written report with photography on every inspection.
What Is a Plumbing Inspection
A plumbing inspection is a comprehensive visual and functional evaluation of a building’s plumbing system performed by a licensed plumber or building inspector. The inspection covers water supply piping material and condition, drain-waste-vent system integrity, fixture operation, water heater safety devices, gas piping connections, backflow prevention devices, and sewage disposal systems. Plumbing inspections may be required by the local building department for new construction, renovations, real estate transactions, or as part of a routine maintenance program. The applicable state building codes, International Plumbing Code (IPC), and National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54) establish the standards against which residential plumbing is evaluated. This service connects to broader plumbing disciplines including Sanitary sewer, Sewerage, and Storm drain, which Bonded Plumbworks addresses through our full range of residential services.
Signs You Need Plumbing Inspection Service
- You are purchasing a home and want an independent plumbing assessment before closing
- Your home is more than 20 years old and has never had a professional plumbing evaluation
- You notice recurring plumbing problems such as leaks, low pressure, or slow drains
- The local building department requires a re-inspection after plumbing repairs
- Your home insurance provider requested a plumbing system assessment
- You are selling your home and want to identify and address issues before the buyer’s inspection
- Your property has polybutylene, galvanized, or cast iron pipes that may need replacement
- You want to establish a preventive maintenance schedule to avoid emergency repairs
- Your vacation home sits unoccupied for months and needs seasonal plumbing checks
Our Plumbing Inspection Process
Step 1 — Water Supply System Evaluation
Our licensed plumber inspects all visible water supply piping, identifying the pipe material (copper, PEX, CPVC, galvanized, or polybutylene), checking for corrosion, leaks, and improper connections. We measure static water pressure with a Watts water pressure test gauge at the hose bibb closest to the water meter. Normal residential pressure ranges from 40 to 80 PSI per applicable state building codes; readings outside this range indicate the need for a pressure reducing valve or booster pump. Plumbing inspection gives you a live view of the problem before any work starts. You review the findings and approve the quote before any repair begins.
Step 2 — Drain-Waste-Vent System Assessment
We evaluate all accessible drain piping for material condition, proper slope, and signs of leakage. Cast iron drain pipes are checked for rust, scale buildup, and joint separation. PVC and ABS drain connections are inspected for proper solvent welds and support spacing. Vent pipes are verified at the roof penetration for proper termination height and screening. We test individual fixture drains for flow rate and identify slow drains that may indicate partial blockages.
Step 3 — Sewer Line Camera Inspection
For comprehensive evaluations, we run a RIDGID SeeSnake or Spartan sewer camera through the main building drain and sewer lateral. Camera inspection reveals root intrusion, bellied pipe sections, cracks, offsets at joints, and scale buildup that cannot be detected from above ground. The camera records video documentation with distance measurements that pinpoint the exact location and depth of any defects.
Step 4 — Fixture and Appliance Testing
Every plumbing fixture in the home is tested for proper operation. Toilets are flushed to verify fill valve function, flapper seal, and drainage. Faucets are run to check for drips, proper hot and cold mixing, and adequate flow rate. Water heaters are inspected for temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve function, anode rod condition, proper venting, and gas connection integrity. We verify anti-scald protection on shower valves per state building code requirements.
Step 5 — Gas Piping Safety Inspection
If the home has natural gas or propane service, we inspect all gas piping for proper material (black iron, CSST, or copper where permitted), support, protection from physical damage, and connection integrity. Gas appliance connectors are checked for proper rating and length. We test for gas leaks using a Bacharach combustible gas detector at every joint, valve, and appliance connection. Shut-off valve function is verified at the meter and at each appliance.
Step 6 — Written Report and Recommendations
We compile all findings into a written inspection report with photographs documenting defects, code violations, and maintenance recommendations. Each item is classified by severity: safety concern (immediate action), code violation (requires repair), maintenance item (preventive), or observation (monitor). The report includes estimated repair costs and prioritized recommendations for addressing identified issues.
Equipment and Materials
Bonded Plumbworks uses professional diagnostic equipment for all plumbing inspections. Sewer camera inspection uses RIDGID SeeSnake compact2 and Spartan Tool systems with self-leveling camera heads and digital recording. Water pressure testing uses Watts DP-IWTG pressure gauges. Leak detection uses Bacharach Leakator combustible gas detectors for gas lines and FLIR thermal imaging cameras for hidden water leaks. Pipe location uses RIDGID SeekTech SR-24 line locators and NaviTrack Scout transmitters. All inspection findings are documented with high-resolution photography and compiled using industry-standard reporting formats. Additional components used in these installations include Tap (valve), selected based on system requirements and site conditions.
Why Choose Bonded Plumbworks for Plumbing Inspection
Bonded Plumbworks has performed residential plumbing inspections since 2006. Our licensed plumbers bring diagnostic expertise that general home inspectors cannot match, identifying issues specific to plumbing including polybutylene pipe degradation, cast iron drain corrosion accelerated by high water tables, and limestone soil effects on underground piping. We are members of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC), the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) for plumbing-specific standards, and maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Every inspection references the current applicable state building codes, International Plumbing Code (IPC), and NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code standards. Bonded Plumbworks maintains compliance with Regulatory compliance across all related installations.
Plumbing Inspection Pricing
Plumbing inspection costs depend on the scope of evaluation and property size. Common price ranges include:
- Standard home plumbing inspection: $250 – $400
- Pre-purchase plumbing inspection with sewer scope: $400 – $600
- Code compliance assessment: $300 – $500
- Annual maintenance inspection: $200 – $350
- Vacation home seasonal check: $175 – $300
Every plumbing inspection includes a written report with photos, severity classifications, and prioritized repair recommendations. Call Bonded Plumbworks at (855) 557-9600 for a firm price before scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a plumbing inspection cost? A comprehensive residential plumbing inspection typically costs between $250 and $500 depending on the size of the home and whether a sewer camera inspection is included. Pre-purchase inspections with sewer scope fall at the higher end. Bonded Plumbworks provides a firm price before scheduling the inspection.
Where can I find plumbing inspection services near me? Bonded Plumbworks provides professional plumbing inspections across all 39 cities. Our licensed plumbers perform home inspections, pre-purchase evaluations, and code compliance assessments. Call (855) 557-9600 to schedule your inspection.
What does a plumbing inspection include? A Bonded Plumbworks plumbing inspection includes evaluation of all water supply piping, drain-waste-vent systems, plumbing fixtures, water heater condition and safety devices, gas piping where present, and the main sewer line via camera inspection. You receive a written report with photos, severity classifications, and repair recommendations.
Should I get a plumbing inspection before buying a home? Yes. A pre-purchase plumbing inspection often reveals issues that a general home inspection misses, including sewer line defects, polybutylene pipe that needs replacement, hidden leaks, and code violations. The cost of an inspection is minimal compared to the potential repair costs of undiscovered plumbing problems. Many homes built between 1978 and 1995 contain polybutylene pipe that is prone to failure.
Does a plumbing inspection come with a written guarantee? Every plumbing inspection from Bonded Plumbworks includes a detailed written report documenting all findings, photos, and prioritized recommendations. If a re-inspection is needed after repairs, we verify the work meets current code at a reduced rate. Our inspection methodology follows PHCC and ASHI standards, and we stand behind the thoroughness of every evaluation.
Schedule Plumbing Inspection Today
Protect your home and investment with a professional plumbing inspection from Bonded Plumbworks. Call (855) 557-9600 to schedule a home plumbing inspection, pre-purchase evaluation, or annual maintenance check. Detailed written reports for every inspection. Every plumbing inspection service includes a 90-day guarantee on plumbing inspection work, covering parts and labor.
Bonded Plumbworks’ plumbing inspection services are available across Florida — see all service locations.