6 Essential Signs You Need a Home Plumbing Inspection Now

Top Signs You Need a Home Plumbing Inspection

Worried about leaks or damage? A home plumbing inspection can save you thousands. Discover key signs you need an inspection to keep your home safe!

If your drains gurgle, your water bill has spiked, or there’s a musty smell you can’t shake, it’s time for a home plumbing inspection. Ignoring the early signs of trouble can lead to costly water damage, structural issues, and unhealthy living conditions.

You shouldn’t have to wait for a plumbing emergency to find out something’s wrong. One slow drain can be annoying…multiple slow drains are a warning. Low water pressure across your home isn’t just inconvenient; it could signal a system-wide problem.

These aren’t quirks. They’re signs your plumbing system is asking for help. Knowing when to inspect plumbing can save you thousands in repairs. If you want clean water, safe drainage, and peace of mind, this article will walk you through exactly what to look for and why a professional inspection matters.

How Do I Know If I Have a Plumbing Issue?

Some problems are easy to spot, while others stay hidden for months. A few signs are subtle, but still worth taking seriously:

• Fluctuating toilet water levels or gurgling sounds
• Wet spots, peeling walls, or stains on ceilings
• The smell of sewer gas or sulfur near drains
• Sudden lack of hot water or long delays in heating
• Water bills that don’t match your usage

What Is Done During a Plumbing Inspection?

A home plumbing inspection checks the condition and performance of your entire plumbing system. Inspectors use a combination of visual checks and diagnostic tools to find potential issues:

• Visual checks of exposed pipes, faucets, toilets, and drains
• Water pressure and flow testing at multiple fixtures
• Inspection of the water heater or tankless system
• Leak detection using sensors or infrared technology
• Camera inspection of the main drain or sewer line
• Evaluation of sump pump and exterior lines if accessible

Signs You Need a Home Plumbing Inspection

A small issue in your plumbing system can lead to serious damage if ignored. Spotting these signs of plumbing issues early gives you a chance to fix the problem before it spreads.

1. Gurgling Drains or Toilets

Strange gurgling sounds coming from your drains or toilets can be more than just annoying. These sounds usually mean air is trapped in the system, which might point to a clog or a blockage in the sewer line.

If you hear bubbling when using your sink or flushing the toilet, something could be backing up deep in the pipes.

2. Unexplained Spikes in Water Bills

If your water bill goes up suddenly, and you’re using water like you always do, something’s off. A plumbing leak could be wasting water somewhere behind the walls, under the floor, or even outdoors.

This is a common sign people overlook. They think their bill is just a bit higher because of seasonal changes or appliance use. In fact, one faucet dripping at one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons a year.

3. Low Water Pressure Throughout the House

If every faucet in your home is weak or uneven, low pressure might be a sign of a more serious problem. It could be a blockage, pipe corrosion, or buildup inside older pipes.

This issue tends to develop slowly, so people get used to it over time. Still, low water pressure across the whole home isn’t normal.

4. Discolored or Murky Water

Tap water should be clear. When it looks brown, yellow, or cloudy, something’s going on. It might be rust from aging pipes, sediment from the water heater, or dirt getting in through a crack.

5. Mold, Mildew, or Water Stains

Damp smells, peeling paint, or soft spots on the wall may seem minor, yet they often mean water is leaking nearby. Mold and mildew grow fast in dark, damp areas, especially behind walls and under floors.

Even a small leak can create the perfect conditions for mold. Once the drywall or insulation gets wet, it doesn’t dry easily. That damage spreads slowly and silently, often going unnoticed for months.

6. Foul Odors Coming from Drains

If your drains smell like rotten eggs or sewage, gas might be escaping from the pipes. This usually means the water trap has dried up or there’s a break somewhere in the sewer line.

That odor isn’t just unpleasant; it can be dangerous. Sewer gas exposure can cause headaches and respiratory issues. You’ll want to fix the issue fast to protect your home and health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get a plumbing inspection?

Once every 1 to 2 years is a good rule of thumb. Homes older than 20 years, or those with past issues, should be checked yearly.

How long does a home plumbing inspection take?

Most homes can be fully inspected in 1 to 2 hours. Larger homes or ones with known issues may take a bit longer.

Do I need an inspection if I haven’t noticed any issues?

Yes. Some problems don’t show symptoms until they’ve caused damage. Regular inspections are part of smart home ownership.

What’s the cost of a plumbing inspection?

Prices vary by location and home size. In many cases, inspections are low-cost or included with other services. Tolutions, Inc. offers free estimates so you can make an informed decision without pressure.

Can I do a DIY plumbing inspection?

You can check for obvious leaks and drips. That said, professionals use tools you probably don’t have. like sewer cameras or thermal scanners, to find hidden problems.

Are inspections necessary if I just bought a home?

Yes. A regular home inspection during the sale may not look closely at the plumbing system. A focused inspection gives a clearer view of what condition your pipes and fixtures are really in.

Don’t Wait for a Leak to Get Worse

Staying ahead of plumbing problems starts with recognizing the warning signs. A home plumbing inspection helps identify hidden leaks, aging components, and early signs of system failure before they become costly repairs.

At Tolutions, Inc., we offer full-service inspections and emergency plumbing backed by over 20 years of experience in Lombard and the Chicagoland area. We’re licensed plumbers who also offer same-day service, 24-hour emergency response, and free estimates. We use sewer cameras, leak detection equipment, and the latest trenchless repair tools to do the job right the first time.

Contact Tolutions, Inc. today to schedule your inspection and protect your home from avoidable damage.