Visual inspection – A visual plumbing inspection costs $100 to $200 and includes only a visual assessment of the plumbing pipes, water lines, drains, fixtures, and water heaters.
Camera or video inspection – A camera or video plumbing inspection costs $300 to $1,100. The plumber feeds a high-resolution camera on a narrow cable through the pipes and water lines to locate blockages or identify issues.
Combination inspection – Plumbers charge $400 to $1,300 for a combined visual and camera inspection.
What is a plumbing inspection?
During a plumbing inspection, plumbers look for leaks, damage, or corrosion and make sure these fixtures are installed properly:
Toilets
Sinks
Bathtubs and showers
Faucets
Pipes and fittings
Appliances that use water
Water heaters
Main shut-off valve
Sump pumps
Outdoor hose bibs
Some plumbers also perform water pressure and water quality checks during the inspection.
How long does a plumbing inspection take?
A plumbing inspection typically takes 1 to 3 hours, depending on the size of your home and whether the plumber notices any issues along the way. Camera and combination inspections usually take longer than basic visual inspections because they're more thorough and require extra equipment.
Do I need a plumbing inspection?
Professionals recommend plumbing inspections every 1 to 2 years or before buying or selling a home. A standard home inspection costs$250 to $500+ but typically doesn't include a thorough evaluation of the plumbing.
You should also get an inspection if you notice:
Ongoing water temperature fluctuations
Strange sounds coming from your pipes
Odors in drains.
Regular inspections can help you catch issues before they escalate, which will prevent more costly repairs.
How do I choose a plumbing inspector?
Before hiring a plumbing inspector near you, follow these steps:
Get at least three inspection estimates to compare.
Look for plumbing companies that have 5+ years of experience.
Check out their company reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Verify their company's insurance, license, and bonds.
Avoid the lowest quotes as quality may suffer.
Get a written estimate, contract, and warranty before the inspection begins.
Never pay in full before the inspection is done.
What questions do I ask plumbing inspectors?
Ask these questions to find a high-quality inspector:
How long have you been in business?
Do you have any relevant plumbing certifications?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
How long will this inspection take?
Do you recommend a visual or camera inspection? Why?
Will there be any cleanup afterward, and is it included in this estimate?
What other fees should I expect?
Do you offer a warranty or guarantee on this?
Reviews for San Francisco plumbing inspectors
Recent success stories from people in the San Francisco area.
Juan O.
Very professional. Replaced the water heater in no time. Very clean work
Innovation Plumbing and Rooter dba HBR CONSTRUCTION
Olga K.
Great job! Was on time and knew exactly what needed to be done. Yes, do recommend him.
Mauricio handyman
Robert T.
Good job & thanks
I Rooter & Plumbing
Cliff K.
Stanley installed a water heater that was too big to go into the utilities closet. With a little extra work, it fits. He made a return trip no charge. Have his business card taped to my water heater just in case. What more do you need to know? Give him a call he's a good guy!
209 Plumbing
Riana A.
While I have to call around or text to get a quote, Walter called me, and offer me a good deal. He came before the scheduled time, very nice, honest, and patient. He knows exactly what to do, and patiently explained what is the problem, and we really appreciate it. Great service, and we definitely will use his service on our next projects.
WaltersplumbingW.A
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Nearby plumbing inspectors in and around San Francisco