Plumbing Inspection Checklist
What is it?
A plumbing inspection checklist is a working survey document used by a plumber to record the condition of every part of a property's plumbing system. It is organised system by system and room by room: cold and hot water supply, drainage and waste, water heating, sanitaryware, visible leaks, water pressure and stop valves. So that each item is checked and rated consistently. It is a condition record, not a certificate of compliance: it captures the state of the installation on the day of inspection and flags defects, risks and recommended remedial work.
About this template
A plumbing inspection checklist gives a plumber a structured, repeatable way to survey the whole of a property's plumbing rather than just the fault they were called out for. Working through supply pipework, drainage, hot water provision, sanitaryware, water pressure and isolation valves in a fixed order means nothing is missed and the customer gets a clear written record of the condition of their system. It is invaluable for pre-purchase surveys, void property checks, landlord handovers and quoting larger jobs, and it protects the plumber by documenting exactly what was, and was not, inspected.
When to use
- Before buying or selling a property, to assess the condition of the plumbing as part of a survey
- When taking on a void or newly acquired rental property and a baseline condition record is needed
- Before quoting for a bathroom, kitchen or larger refurbishment so the full system condition informs the price
- When a landlord or managing agent wants a periodic check of the plumbing between tenancies
- After a leak, burst or water damage incident to assess the wider system and identify other weak points
- When a customer reports recurring problems such as low pressure, slow drainage or noisy pipework
Tips
- 1Always locate and test the internal stop tap first. A seized stop tap is a common, serious finding and the customer needs to know how to isolate the supply in an emergency
- 2Note any lead supply pipe or lead-jointed pipework clearly and recommend replacement; lead pipework is a health concern and water suppliers often part-fund replacement of the external section
- 3Check that isolation valves are fitted and actually turn. Valves that are present but seized give a false sense of security and slow down future repairs
- 4Photograph leaks, corrosion and poor previous workmanship as you go; dated photos alongside the checklist make your report credible and protect you in any dispute
- 5Confirm fittings on the supply side are WRAS-approved and that adequate backflow protection is in place. Non-compliant fittings are a Water Fittings Regulations 1999 issue the customer should be told about
