Plumbing System and Water Heater Inspection Checklist
Annual plumbing inspections identify potential failures before they cause costly water damage and habitability issues. This checklist covers supply, drainage, and water heating systems per ICC Plumbing Code and local health requirements.
- Industry: Real Estate & Property Management
- Frequency: Annual
- Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
- Role: Plumbing Inspector / Maintenance Supervisor
- Total Items: 34
- Compliance: ICC International Plumbing Code, ASSE 1060 Backflow Prevention Device Standards, EPA Lead and Copper Rule (40 CFR Part 141), OSHA 29 CFR 1910.141 Sanitation Standards, UK Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999
Water Supply Piping
Assess supply piping material, condition, and concerns.
- Pipe material identified: copper, PEX, CPVC, galvanized, or lead?
- No deteriorated galvanized pipes with reduced flow or corrosion?
- No active leaks at supply pipe joints, valves, or fixture connections?
- Water pressure within 40-80 PSI range (test at hose bib)?
- Pressure reducing valve functional if serving high-pressure supply?
- Main water shutoff valve accessible and operating correctly?
Drain, Waste, and Vent System
Inspect drainage and vent systems.
- All fixture drains flowing freely with no slow drainage?
- No sewer odors in building (indicate dry P-traps or venting issues)?
- No leaks at drain connections visible under fixtures?
- Main sewer line clear - no backup history or root intrusion?
- Sewer cleanouts accessible for snaking if needed?
- Roof vent stacks visible and free of nesting materials or blockage?
Water Heater Assessment
Inspect water heater condition and safety devices.
- Water heater age documented and within expected life (8-12 years)?
- No active leaks at water heater connections or base?
- Temperature-Pressure Relief (TPR) valve present, not discharged, and piped to floor?
- TPR valve tested within past 3 years (lift handle briefly)?
- Water heater seismically strapped per code (required in earthquake zones)?
- Gas water heater flue properly connected and sloped to exterior?
Fixtures and Plumbing Appliances
Inspect plumbing fixtures for leaks and function.
- All toilets flushing properly with no running, wobble, or base leaks?
- All faucets functioning without drips, leaks, or reduced flow?
- Dishwasher connection and drain free of leaks?
- Washing machine hoses not over 5 years old (rubber hoses fail at 5-7 years)?
- Sump pump operational and discharge flowing freely?
Backflow Prevention and Water Quality
Verify backflow prevention and water quality devices.
- Backflow prevention devices installed on irrigation and other connections?
- Backflow prevention device test certificate current (commercial)?
- Water softener operational and salt supply adequate?
- Whole-house filter cartridges replaced per schedule?
- Point-of-use lead filter installed for pre-1986 properties?
Documentation
Document plumbing inspection findings.
- Written inspection report with photos completed?
- Open permit history reviewed for unpermitted plumbing work?
- Backflow test records maintained per water authority requirements?
- As-built drawings available showing plumbing layout?
- Repair recommendations communicated to property owner?
- Next annual inspection scheduled?
Related Real Estate Property Checklists
- Electrical Panel and Wiring Safety Inspection Checklist
- Rental Property Appliance Condition and Safety Inspection Checklist
- Window and Door Condition and Security Assessment Checklist
- HVAC Seasonal Readiness and Preventive Maintenance Checklist
- Property Fire Safety and Extinguisher Inspection Checklist
- ADA Accessibility Compliance Audit Checklist
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Testing Compliance Checklist
- Lead Paint and Asbestos Pre-Renovation Survey Checklist
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Why Use This Plumbing System and Water Heater Inspection Checklist?
This plumbing system and water heater inspection checklist helps real estate & property management teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for plumbing inspector / maintenance supervisor professionals, this checklist covers 34 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: annual.
Ensures compliance with ICC International Plumbing Code, ASSE 1060 Backflow Prevention Device Standards, EPA Lead and Copper Rule (40 CFR Part 141), OSHA 29 CFR 1910.141 Sanitation Standards, UK Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Plumbing System and Water Heater Inspection Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 34 inspection items across 6 sections: Water Supply Piping, Drain, Waste, and Vent System, Water Heater Assessment, Fixtures and Plumbing Appliances, Backflow Prevention and Water Quality, Documentation. It is designed for real estate & property management operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed annual. Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
Who should use this Plumbing System and Water Heater Inspection Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Plumbing Inspector / Maintenance Supervisor professionals in the real estate & property management industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.