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A small investment in regular plumbing inspections can prevent costly emergencies, extend the life of your plumbing systems, and give you peace of mind. Here's what's involved and why it matters.
Why Bother With Inspections?
Most plumbing problems don't appear overnight. Leaks, corrosion, and blockages develop gradually over months or years. By the time you notice a problem — a water stain on the ceiling, a spike in your water bill, or a drain that won't clear — the underlying issue may have been building for a long time and caused damage you can't see.
Regular plumbing inspections catch these problems early, when they're cheap and easy to fix, rather than waiting for an expensive emergency.
What Does a Plumbing Inspection Cover?
A comprehensive plumbing inspection by a licensed plumber typically includes:
Water supply system:
- Check all visible pipes for leaks, corrosion, and signs of wear
- Test water pressure at multiple points (too high or too low can both cause problems)
- Inspect tap washers and valves for drips and smooth operation
- Check the condition of flexible hose connections (a common failure point)
- Test isolation valves to ensure they work when you need them
Drainage system:
- Check all drains for flow rate and signs of blockage
- Inspect accessible drain pipes for damage or leaks
- Check gully traps and overflow relief gullies
- CCTV inspection of underground drains (if included in the service)
Hot water system:
- Check for leaks, corrosion, and rust staining
- Test the temperature and pressure relief valve
- Check the anode rod condition (storage systems)
- Verify thermostat settings and tempering valve operation
Gas system (if applicable):
- Check gas connections for leaks using a gas detector
- Inspect gas appliance flame patterns and combustion
- Check ventilation and flue systems
Toilet and fixtures:
- Check for silent leaks (a running toilet can waste over 25,000 litres per year)
- Test flush mechanisms and fill valves
- Check seals and connections at basins, baths, and showers
How Often Should You Get an Inspection?
For most residential properties, we recommend a full plumbing inspection every 2 years. However, you should consider annual inspections if:
- Your home is more than 25 years old
- You have mature trees near your sewer or water lines
- You've experienced plumbing emergencies in the past
- You're buying or selling a property (a pre-purchase plumbing inspection is highly recommended)
The Cost of Prevention vs Emergency
A professional plumbing inspection typically costs between $150 and $300, depending on the size of the property and whether CCTV drain inspection is included. Compare this to the cost of common plumbing emergencies:
- Burst pipe repair and water damage restoration: $2,000–$10,000+
- Sewer line replacement: $5,000–$15,000
- Hot water system failure and emergency replacement: $2,000–$4,000
- Mould remediation from undetected leaks: $3,000–$8,000
The numbers speak for themselves. Regular inspections are one of the smartest investments you can make in your home.
Book Your Inspection
Precision Plumbing Co offers comprehensive plumbing inspections across Brisbane and Sydney. Our licensed plumbers will assess your entire plumbing system, provide a detailed written report, and recommend any preventative maintenance or repairs. Contact us to book your inspection today.
