Home Plumbing Inspection: How Often Should You Inspect Your System?

Your home’s plumbing system is one of the most important parts of your house, yet it is often the most overlooked. Water flows through pipes, drains, toilets, and appliances every day, and as long as everything works, most homeowners don’t give it a second thought. The problem is that hidden plumbing issues rarely stay hidden forever. Small leaks, cracks, or clogged sewer pipes can quickly turn into costly repairs if they go unnoticed.

That’s why a home plumbing inspection is one of the smartest things you can schedule. Just like regular checkups with your doctor or tune-ups for your car, a plumbing inspection ensures your entire plumbing system is in tip-top shape. For homeowners in Sonoma and Marin County, where many properties are older and surrounded by large trees with roots that can invade sewer pipes, inspections are especially important.

If you’ve ever wondered how often you should schedule an inspection, what a sewer camera inspection involves, or how a plumbing inspection can prevent costly repairs, this guide is for you.

Contact John Owens Services today to schedule your plumbing inspection and keep your house running smoothly.

Why Regular Plumbing Inspections Matter for Homeowners

A plumbing system is more than just pipes. It includes water supply lines, sewer pipes, drains, fixtures, appliances, and the equipment that keeps water flowing correctly. When a single part of the system fails, it can lead to water damage, mold growth, and expensive repairs.

Without a thorough inspection, most plumbing problems go unnoticed. A cracked sewer line may not show symptoms until you experience recurring clogs or strange odors in your bathroom or yard. Low water pressure may feel like a minor annoyance, but it can indicate leaks or corrosion in hidden pipes. Slow drains may be an early warning of root intrusion or other major problems in your sewer line.

The purpose of a plumbing inspection is to catch these issues before they cause extensive damage. A licensed plumber will conduct a thorough inspection using specialized tools like a sewer camera or flexible camera to view inside your sewer pipes. This allows them to notice signs of cracks, leaks, or buildup. Preventive maintenance saves money, helps maintain property value, and protects your home from plumbing problems that otherwise would have gone undetected.

If you want peace of mind and reliable plumbing, schedule a home plumbing inspection with John Owens Services.

How Often Should You Schedule a Home Plumbing Inspection?

Most homeowners should schedule a plumbing inspection once a year. An annual inspection gives plumbers the chance to identify small leaks, slow drains, or cracks before they lead to costly repairs.

However, how often you need an inspection depends on your property. Older homes often require more frequent inspections because their plumbing system may include outdated pipes or fixtures. Homes with large trees on the property may need additional sewer scope inspection because roots can grow into sewer lines. If you have experienced recurring clogs, water backups, or low water pressure, it is wise to schedule a sewer camera inspection immediately rather than waiting for your annual check.

Homeowners who are remodeling, replacing appliances, or installing new fixtures should also schedule an inspection. This ensures the plumbing system and sewer pipes can handle the increased demand without causing water backups or leaks.

Do not wait until you notice plumbing problems. Prevent costly repairs by scheduling regular inspections with a licensed plumber at John Owens Services.

What a Professional Plumbing Inspection Includes

A complete plumbing inspection covers the entire plumbing system in your house. Plumbers will inspect water supply lines, drain pipes, sewer pipes, and all fixtures. They will check for leaks, cracks, corrosion, low water pressure, and other signs of plumbing issues.

Inspections often include video camera inspection of your sewer line. A flexible camera allows plumbers to see inside pipes in real time, revealing cracks, blockages, and root intrusion. The live feed makes it possible to locate problems quickly without guessing.

Drain cleaning may also be part of the inspection, especially if slow drains or strange odors are present. Plumbers may conduct pressure tests, check your water heater, inspect bathroom fixtures, and make sure toilets flush properly. The inspection will identify whether repairs, replacements, or additional maintenance is needed.

By the end of the inspection, you will know the condition of your plumbing system, the root cause of any plumbing problems, and the next steps required to keep everything in working order.

Sewer Camera Inspection: Seeing Problems Before They Spread

One of the most valuable parts of a home plumbing inspection is the sewer camera inspection. This technology uses a flexible camera that travels inside your sewer pipes and sewer line. It provides a live feed that shows the interior of your pipes in detail.

Sewer camera inspection allows plumbers to conduct a sewer scope inspection without digging up your yard or tearing open your bathroom floor. They can diagnose cracks, root intrusion, and other major problems right away. A sewer scope inspection is especially useful in older homes where sewer pipes may already be deteriorating.

Camera inspection also helps locate the leak’s location, which is critical when diagnosing plumbing issues. Whether you have recurring clogs, water backups, or strange odors, sewer inspection takes the guesswork out of repairs. Instead of paying for costly exploratory work, you get answers quickly and accurately.

If you have not had a sewer scope inspection in the last year, now is the time. Contact John Owens Services to schedule a thorough inspection and protect your property.

Common Reasons Homeowners Need a Sewer Scope Inspection

There are several common reasons homeowners need a sewer scope inspection. Recurring clogs in sinks, toilets, or drains often point to problems in sewer pipes. Strange odors in your yard or bathrooms may indicate leaks or blockages in the sewer line. Low water pressure can result from cracks or root intrusion.

Other common reasons include remodeling projects, purchasing an older home, or noticing slow drains. Large trees on the property are another common cause, as roots often infiltrate sewer pipes. These plumbing problems are easy to miss without a camera inspection.

The good news is that scheduling a sewer scope inspection allows plumbers to diagnose the problem quickly. Instead of waiting for major problems like water backups or leaks, you can prevent costly repairs by catching issues early.

Signs You Shouldn’t Wait for Your Next Inspection

While most homeowners can schedule inspections annually, certain signs mean you should not wait. If you notice leaks, strange odors, slow drains, or recurring clogs, call a plumber right away. Low water pressure, water backups, or cracks in fixtures like sinks and toilets are also red flags.

Mold growth, unexplained wet spots in your yard, or unusually high water bills are signs of plumbing problems. Older homes and homes with previous plumbing issues should be inspected more often.

Don’t delay. If you notice these signs, schedule a plumbing inspection immediately. John Owens Services can send a licensed plumber to diagnose and repair issues before they cause extensive damage.

Plumbing Problems That Start Small but Lead to Costly Repairs

Most plumbing problems start small. A slow drain may not seem urgent, but it could mean root intrusion in your sewer line. A dripping faucet may waste only a little water each day, but over time it can increase your water bill significantly. A hidden leak inside a wall can lead to mold growth and structural damage.

Plumbing issues like these are best caught during preventative maintenance. A thorough inspection identifies cracks, leaks, or corrosion before they cause costly repairs. In most cases, minor repairs are far less expensive than repairing water damage, replacing sewer pipes, or conducting foundation repair after a major leak.

The True Cost of Skipping Plumbing Inspections

Skipping plumbing inspections can be expensive. Water damage from leaks can ruin floors, walls, and belongings. Sewer backups can damage your yard and require costly excavation. Mold growth from unnoticed leaks creates health risks and requires remediation.

The inspection cost is small compared to the price of these repairs. Homeowners who schedule regular inspections save money, avoid costly repairs, and maintain their property’s value. Industry experts and reputable sources all recommend preventative maintenance for this reason.

If you want to avoid expensive surprises, schedule your home plumbing inspection with John Owens Services today.

Preventative Maintenance: Saving Money and Protecting Your Home

Preventive maintenance is the key to keeping your plumbing system in tip-top shape. A thorough inspection allows plumbers to notice signs of plumbing problems before they become major problems. By scheduling regular inspections, you maintain your plumbing, protect your house, and save money in the long run.

Preventive maintenance includes sewer inspection, drain cleaning, and camera inspection. It also involves checking your water heater, inspecting fixtures, and ensuring your plumbing system can handle the demand of your household.

By working with John Owens Services, you can schedule preventative maintenance at the right intervals for your property. Don’t wait for leaks, low water pressure, or recurring clogs to remind you. Protect your home by booking a plumbing inspection today.

What to Expect From an Inspection Cost (And Why It’s Worth It)

Homeowners often ask about inspection costs. The price of a plumbing inspection varies depending on property size, access to sewer pipes, and whether a video camera inspection is required. While the cost can vary, it is always cost-effective compared to repairing extensive damage.

For example, inspection cost may be a few hundred dollars, while the cost to repair a burst pipe, foundation issues, or water damage can be thousands. Most homeowners who pay for preventative maintenance agree it is money well spent. Labor costs and material costs for repairs are far more expensive than a routine inspection.

Call John Owens Services today to schedule your inspection and learn about the inspection cost for your property.

DIY Checks vs Hiring a Licensed Plumber

Some homeowners attempt to inspect their own plumbing. While you can check for leaks under sinks, slow drains, or low water pressure, only a licensed plumber can conduct a thorough inspection. Professional plumbers use specialized equipment like sewer cameras and flexible cameras to diagnose issues hidden deep inside sewer pipes.

DIY checks are helpful, but they are no substitute for professional services. A licensed plumber can locate problems, explain next steps, and provide repairs before damage spreads. Don’t rely on guesswork. Contact John Owens Services for a professional plumbing inspection.

Why Older Homes in Sonoma & Marin Need Extra Attention

Sonoma and Marin counties have many older homes with aging plumbing systems. These houses often have older sewer pipes, outdated fixtures, and large trees whose roots invade sewer lines. Older homes require more frequent plumbing inspections to prevent costly repairs.

If your property is more than 30 years old, schedule inspections annually or even twice a year. A thorough inspection will locate cracks, leaks, and corrosion that could threaten your home’s structural integrity.

Protect your older home by scheduling inspections with John Owens Services, your trusted local pros.

How Plumbing Inspections Protect Your Property Value

Your property value depends on the condition of your house, and plumbing plays a major role. Buyers are wary of homes with plumbing issues, recurring clogs, or sewer problems. A thorough inspection ensures your plumbing is in good condition and helps maintain your property’s value.

Plumbing inspections prevent costly repairs, protect your home’s foundation, and keep your property attractive to future buyers. Regular inspections are an investment in your house’s long-term value.

When to Schedule Inspections Around Remodeling or Upgrades

If you are remodeling your bathroom, replacing appliances, or upgrading fixtures, schedule a plumbing inspection first. Remodeling often increases demand on your plumbing system. A thorough inspection ensures your sewer pipes and water supply lines can handle the load without leaks or water backups.

Plumbers can conduct sewer scope inspections and camera inspections to identify whether your system needs upgrades before remodeling. This prevents costly repairs and project delays later.

Before you begin your next plumbing project or remodel, call John Owens Services to schedule a complete inspection.

How to Maintain Your Plumbing System Between Inspections

While professional inspections are essential, there are steps homeowners can take between visits. Conduct basic checks for leaks, slow drains, or low water pressure. Notice signs like strange odors, recurring clogs, or water stains on walls. Keep drains clear and avoid putting grease or inappropriate items into sinks and toilets.

Even with good habits, hidden problems can occur. That is why preventative maintenance and professional inspections are critical. Combine good habits with professional services to maintain your plumbing system in tip-top shape.

Choosing the Right Local Pros for Plumbing Inspections

Not all plumbers are the same. Choosing licensed plumbers with specialized tools ensures you receive accurate inspections and reliable repairs. John Owens Services has decades of experience serving Sonoma and Marin County homeowners with trusted plumbing services.

Our team uses video camera inspection, sewer scope inspection, and drain cleaning to provide thorough inspections. We diagnose plumbing issues accurately, explain next steps clearly, and prevent costly repairs with targeted solutions.

When you need local pros who care about your home, choose John Owens Services.

Conclusion and Call to Action: Book Your Inspection Today

Plumbing problems often start small and hidden. By the time you notice recurring clogs, water backups, or low water pressure, major problems may already be developing inside your sewer pipes or water supply lines. Preventative maintenance through regular home plumbing inspection is the best way to protect your house, avoid costly repairs, and maintain your property value.

For most homeowners, an annual inspection is enough, but older homes, homes with large trees, or houses with recurring plumbing problems may need more frequent inspections. Whether you need a sewer camera inspection, drain cleaning, or a full plumbing system evaluation, John Owens Services is here to help.

Contact John Owens Services today to schedule your plumbing inspection with a licensed plumber. Don’t wait until you notice leaks, strange odors, or slow drains. Protect your property, save money, and keep your plumbing in tip-top shape by booking your inspection now.