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 Chicago plumbing inspectors
Recent success stories from people in the Chicago area.
La'kisha Grays W.
Alberto was the 3rd plumber I had come and look at my problem. He was the only one that discovered I had not one but two lenghts of sewer pipe that was broken and needed to be replaced. He came back early the next day with his team, dug an 8ft trench, replaced the pipe, rodded everything and refilled the whole in less than half a day. I was extremely impressed with his knowledge, expertise and speed with which he solved my problem. I was desperate and he swooped in and saved the day! 10/10 would definitely use again and recommend in a heartbeat!
All Plumbing Services
Matt H.
Bill come over to my house and roded out my main line did a great job and price was reasonable thanks bill
Community plumbing & sewer...
Pamela S.
Very professional, good prices, explained in detail the work that would be required, the cost of labor and an estimate for the cost of materials.
312 Remodeling Ideas Inc.
Tenisha B.
Great experience. He read in and out in less than an hour. His prices were more than far and will use him in the future for other projects
WilliamsPlumbing
Casandra S.
Julio was very thorough in his work and did a great job. It took a bit longer than originally anticipated, but I was more than ok with that knowing he did such a great job! I will be hiring him again!
Argueta’s Remodeling Inc.
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