What to Expect During a Home Plumbing Health Check

Keeping your home's plumbing in excellent condition starts with a thorough inspection. Whether you’re preparing for a sale, concerned about water usage, or just staying proactive, understanding what happens during a plumbing inspection and how to prepare for it can help avoid future problems and unexpected costs.

How to Prepare Before the Plumber Arrives

Booking your inspection with a certified plumber ensures you're working with someone who meets industry standards. Choose a professional registered with a body such as the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE).

To get your home ready:

• Clear access to all plumbing areas, including under sinks and around your boiler or water heater.
• Make fixtures accessible, including outdoor taps and lesser-used areas.
• List any issues you've noticed, such as dripping taps or slow drains.
• Gather documents like water bills or previous inspection reports.
• Avoid using water appliances (like washing machines or dishwashers) on the day of inspection.

In certain cases, such as when the inspection follows recent work or is part of a property sale, permits or certificates of compliance may also be required.

Key Areas Covered in a Full Plumbing Health Check

Water Meter and Usage Checks

To detect hidden leaks, your plumber will:

• Record your current meter reading.
• Ask you to stop all water use.
• Re-check after 15 to 30 minutes.
• Compare readings and look for unexplained changes.

They may also compare your usage to average figures to flag potential issues.

Pipes and Connections

Visible pipework under sinks and in utility spaces will be examined for:

• Corrosion or rust
• Active or past leaks
• Cracks and joint problems
• Outdated materials such as lead or galvanised steel

Water Heater Inspection

A complete check includes:

• Checking for rust, leaks or damage
• Verifying correct temperature (around 60°C)
• Testing the pressure relief valve
• Inspecting insulation and anode rod condition
• Reviewing the unit’s age and efficiency

Drainage and Blockages

Your plumber will:

• Test drainage in sinks, baths, and showers
• Use a drain camera if needed
• Listen for unusual sounds (like gurgling)
• Inspect traps and recommend cleaning methods like hydro-jetting

Safety and Shutoff Valves

Vital safety checks include:

• Testing the main water shutoff valve
• Verifying operation of individual fixture valves
• Inspecting pressure-reducing and backflow prevention valves
• Ensuring gas shutoff valves are accessible and working

Taps, Fixtures and Toilets

They’ll review:

• Water pressure and flow
• Leaks or drips
• Condition of seals, washers and aerators
• Fixture stability
• Toilet flushing efficiency, tank condition, and floor seals

Seals and Caulking

Areas checked include:

• Bath and shower surrounds
• Sink perimeters
• Toilet bases
• Window frames in bathrooms

Re-caulking may be recommended if cracking, mould or separation is found.

How a Simple Check Can Help

Catching small issues early, like a slow leak or a poorly sealed fitting, can save thousands in water damage or emergency call-outs. A professional plumbing inspection gives you peace of mind and a clear picture of your system’s condition.

Need a plumbing inspection in Epsom, Sutton, Carshalton or Surrey?

RCB Plumbing offers thorough plumbing checks to help you catch issues early and keep your system running efficiently. Call us on 02082617499 or fill out our contact form to book your inspection today.

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