Plumbing & Water Heater Inspection Checklist | Middle TN

In Middle Tennessee, plumbing issues and water heater failures are the leading causes of insurance claims and crawlspace mold. Here is the rigorous Atchley Home Inspections LLC performs to protect your investment.

• TPR Valve & Discharge Pipe: We verify the Temperature & Pressure Relief valve is present and that the discharge pipe terminates safely to prevent scalding in a blowout.
• Thermal Expansion Tanks: We check for a properly pressurized expansion tank (required in most jurisdictions to prevent system stress).
• Venting & Exhaust: For gas units, we inspect the flue and draft hood for proper slope and signs of dangerous carbon monoxide backdrafting.
• Corrosion & Leakage: We inspect the base and "nipples" of the tank for weeping or rust that signals imminent failure.
• Combustion Air: We verify the unit has adequate air supply to burn fuel safely and efficiently.

• Main Shut-Off Valve: we locate your main valve and verify it is accessible and functional for emergency use.
• Pipe Material Identification: We identify the type of supply lines (Copper, PEX, CPVC, or Galvanized) and check for signs of galvanic corrosion.
• Cross-Connections: We look for improper connections that could allow contaminated water to enter your drinking supply.

• Functional Drainage: We perform a water test on fixtures to ensure they drain properly, and that no leaks are present at the time being of the inspection.
• Trap Verifications: We check for proper P-traps and the presence of venting to prevent hazardous sewer gases from entering the home.

• Cleanout Accessibility: We verify that sewer cleanouts are accessible for future maintenance.

• Cabinet "Drip" Checks: We inspect under every sink with a high-powered flashlight for active leaks or past water damage to the cabinetry.
• Toilet Stability: We test for "rocking" or loose toilets—the #1 cause of subfloor rot and joist damage in Tennessee.
• Shower/Tub Enclosures: We inspect the "wet wall" and floor-to-wall seals for signs of moisture intrusion.
• Gas Line Bonding: We verify that gas piping is properly bonded to the electrical system to prevent fire hazards during lightning strikes.

• Crawlspace Plumbing: We enter the crawlspace to check for sagging pipes, leaking waste lines, and uninsulated pipes prone to freezing.
• Hose Bibbs: We test exterior faucets for proper operation and check for anti-siphon backflow preventers.

Don't let a hidden leak turn into a structural disaster. Every Atchley Home Inspection includes this comprehensive plumbing evaluation to give you total peace of mind.