The Crucial Role of a Reliable and Experienced Plumber in Property Inspections

The Crucial Role of a Reliable and Experienced Plumber in Property Inspections

When it comes to purchasing a new property or investing in real estate, a comprehensive inspection is a vital step to ensure you are making a sound investment. While many buyers primarily rely on the expertise of building inspectors, there is one professional whose presence is often overlooked but shouldn’t be: the reliable and experienced plumber. In this blog, we will shed light on the significance of having a trusted plumber conduct a property inspection and why their expertise can make a world of difference.

Comprehensive Assessment of Plumbing Systems: Plumbing is a critical component of any building, and its proper functioning is essential for a safe and comfortable living environment. While building inspectors provide a general overview of the property, they may not possess in-depth knowledge of plumbing systems. A skilled plumber can thoroughly examine the plumbing infrastructure, including pipes, fixtures, drains, and sewage systems. They can identify potential issues such as leaks, corrosion, water pressure problems, or outdated plumbing materials that could lead to costly repairs in the future.

Detection of Hidden Problems: Plumbing issues are not always visible to the untrained eye. Leaks, pipe blockages, or hidden water damage can go unnoticed during a standard building inspection. However, a professional plumber has the experience and tools necessary to detect concealed problems that may be lurking within the property. Their keen eye for detail allows them to identify red flags, such as mold growth, dampness, or suspicious odors, which could indicate underlying plumbing issues that require immediate attention.

Insight into Maintenance and Upgrades: Apart from identifying existing plumbing problems, a reliable plumber can also provide valuable insights into the maintenance and potential upgrades required for the property. They can advise you on the lifespan of plumbing fixtures and suggest any necessary replacements or upgrades. This knowledge can help you plan your budget and make informed decisions about the property’s long-term maintenance needs.

Compliance with Building Codes and Regulations: Building codes and regulations relating to plumbing systems can vary from region to region. By engaging a knowledgeable plumber during the property inspection, you ensure that the plumbing infrastructure meets the required standards. They can verify if the property is in compliance with local codes and advise on any necessary upgrades or modifications needed to avoid potential legal issues in the future.

Cost-Savings in the Long Run: Investing in a professional plumber for a property inspection might seem like an additional expense at first. However, it is crucial to consider the potential cost-savings that come from uncovering plumbing issues early on. Identifying and addressing plumbing problems before purchasing a property can save you from unexpected repair costs down the line. Moreover, negotiations based on the plumber’s findings can help you negotiate a better deal with the seller.

Conclusion: While building inspections play an essential role in property evaluations, they often fall short when it comes to plumbing systems. To ensure a thorough examination and accurate assessment of a property’s plumbing infrastructure, it is essential to involve a reliable and experienced plumber. Their specialized knowledge and expertise can uncover hidden problems, provide maintenance insights, ensure compliance with regulations, and save you from costly surprises. Remember, a little investment in a professional plumber during the inspection can go a long way in securing your peace of mind and protecting your investment in the long run.

At National Plumbing and Gas we are thorough and our report will be comprehensive however we like to keep things simple and try not to confuse people with jargon so we have developed a ‘traffic light’ system to help people easily understand our findings.

Green > Working fine, no action is required for at least 6 – 12 months

Orange > Working ok but should be rectified within 3 – 6 months

Red  > Urgent, needs to be rectified with 24 – 48 hours

Residential Pre-Purchase Inspections are designed to be  thorough with the end product being a detailed report that helps identify where any problems may be and wherever possible a price to rectify.

-Pictures throughout the inspection

-Compliance issues

-Incoming Mains pressure reading and leak test.

-Flow rate tests at taps.

-Kitchen > test taps & drains + Insinkerator etc.

-Bathrooms > test taps, drains, Shower Combination pressure test, FWG + Tile inspection.

-Laundry > test taps, drains & FWG inspection.

-Toilets > test cistern flush and bowl draining ok + visual check for leaks.

-Hot Water System inspection.

-Test outdoor taps (make sure they have Vacuum Breakers).

-Outdoor Stormwater Drains – run water through with a hose and make sure they are clear.

-Visual Inspection of RWT & associated Plumbing.

-Gas appliance and installation check.

A Final report containing inspection results, pics and recommendations with pricing will be emailed to the client after payment has been received in full.

Here are three package options you can choose from  for plumbing inspections:

1. *Basic Inspection Package* P.O.A

    -Pressure test incoming Cold Water Mains piping (leak test)

   – Evaluation of visible pipework and fixtures

   – Visual assessment for leaks and drips

   – Inspection of water pressure and flow rates

   – Testing of all taps and toilets

   – Basic assessment report

2. **Standard Inspection Package:** P.O.A (most popular)

   – Comprehensive evaluation of all visible and accessible plumbing (including Compliance)

    -Pressure test incoming Cold Water Mains piping (leak test)

   – Water pressure and leak testing on in-wall water pipes

   – Inspection of water pressure and flow rates

   – Testing of all taps and toilets

   – Inspection of water heater and connections

   – Inspection of Downpipes

   – Outdoor Sewer and Stormwater Drains – above ground pipework inspection + flush test

   – Visual Inspection of Rainwater tank & associated Plumbing.

   – Detailed assessment report with pictures and recommendations

3. ***Premium Inspection Package*** P.O.A (recommended for houses over 25 years old)

   – Thorough inspection of all visible and accessible plumbing (including Compliance)

    -Pressure test incoming Cold Water Mains piping (leak test)

   – Water pressure and leak testing on in-wall water pipes

   – Inspection of water pressure and flow rates

   – Testing of all taps and toilets

   – Inspection of water heater and connections

   – Inspection of Downpipes

   – Outdoor Sewer and Stormwater Drains – above ground pipework inspection + flush test

   – Visual Inspection of Rainwater tank & associated Plumbing.

   – Video camera inspection of Sewer and Stormwater lines (where easy access allows)

   – Water pressure analysis and adjustment

   – Comprehensive inspection report with pictures and recommendations

Optional extras

*Gas* Additional P.O.A

– Gas appliance installation and performance checks.

– Safety and Compliance inspection (visual only)

**Roof Inspection* Additional P.O.A

-General condition inspection

– Roof sheets / tiles

– Gutters and downpipes

These packages offer customers various levels of service and detail, catering to different needs and budgets.

FAQ’s

1. How long does it take? The actual inspection can take up to 3 hours on site depending on the package selected, then another 1-2 hours in our office to compile the information into an easy to understand report (usually emailed within 24 hours).
2. Does the inspection include a CCTV Inspection of the drains? We offer a variety of different options for customers and a CCTV Inspection can be included upon request however for buildings older than 20 years old we strongly recommend that a CCTV Inspection is carried out.
3. What if I get the report and it confirms that there is extensive work necessary in order to have a fully functioning and compliant Plumbing system? This is possibly the most important reason why you should have the inspection carried out in the first place. If the inspection comes back with significant issues highlighted than usually there are three outcomes here
   1. Take the quoted information to the vendor and insist upon a discount.
   2. Be thankful that you are fully aware of what you are buying and that it isn’t a nasty shock to you later on.
   3. Don’t buy the property and move on – (some people sell the report to the vendor).
4. Will the Gas Check include a Compliance Certificate? No, this is mainly because a gas leak test must be carried out as part of a Gas Safety Inspection which is compulsory before a Gas Compliance Certificate can be issued and if a gas leak is found then the gas supply can only be left on after the leak has been repaired – the vendor may not be ok with this. If you move into the property then we recommend that you then have a Gas Safety Inspection carried out and a Compliance Certificate issued – if the house is on LP Gas this will be a requirement in order to have a provider supply gas bottles to the property – obviously we can help you with this at a discounted rate.