Plumbing Resource

Monthly Home Plumbing Inspection Checklist

Quick Overview

A monthly home plumbing inspection helps you catch small problems before they become expensive repairs. Regular checks can prevent water damage, reduce utility bills, improve water efficiency, and extend the life of your plumbing system.

This checklist is designed for homeowners and beginners who want a simple, organized routine to keep their plumbing in good condition.

Download Printable Version – Monthly Home Plumbing Inspection Checklist

Before You Start

◻️ Set aside 20–45 minutes for the inspection.

◻️ Walk through every room with plumbing fixtures, including:

  • Kitchen
  • Bathrooms
  • Laundry room
  • Garage
  • Basement
  • Utility room
  • Outside hose bibs and faucets

◻️ Know where your main water shut-off valve is located.

◻️ Know where individual fixture shut-off valves are located.

◻️ Review your previous inspection notes if available.

◻️ Make a list of any plumbing issues you have noticed recently, such as:

  • Dripping faucets
  • Slow drains
  • Running toilets
  • Water stains
  • Unusual sounds
  • Higher water bills

Tools, Supplies, or Resources Needed

Optional:

Step-by-Step Checklist

Water Meter Check

◻️ Record your current water meter reading.

Tip: This helps track unusual water usage.

◻️ Turn off all water fixtures and appliances.

◻️ Wait 15–30 minutes and recheck the meter.

Warning: If the meter changes, you may have a hidden leak.

Check for Visible Leaks

◻️ Inspect exposed water pipes under sinks.

◻️ Look around toilets for moisture.

◻️ Check around tubs and showers for water damage.

◻️ Inspect behind washing machines if accessible.

◻️ Check around the water heater.

◻️ Look for:

  • Rust
  • Corrosion
  • Mineral buildup
  • Mold
  • Water stains
  • Damp insulation

Best Practice: Even a small drip can waste hundreds of gallons over time.

Inspect Faucets

◻️ Turn on every faucet.

◻️ Check for proper water flow.

◻️ Look for leaks around handles and spouts.

◻️ Listen for unusual noises.

◻️ Turn faucets off and verify they stop completely.

Tip: Replace worn aerators if flow is reduced.

Check Toilets

◻️ Flush every toilet.

◻️ Make sure the tank refills properly.

◻️ Listen for continuous running water.

◻️ Check the floor around the toilet for moisture.

◻️ Perform a dye test:

  • Add food coloring to the tank.
  • Wait 15 minutes.
  • If color appears in the bowl without flushing, the flapper may be leaking.

◻️ Check that the toilet is firmly secured and does not rock.

Inspect Drains

◻️ Run water through all sinks.

◻️ Check tubs and showers for slow drainage.

◻️ Look for standing water.

◻️ Smell for sewer odors.

◻️ Clean hair and debris from drain strainers.

Warning: Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners as routine maintenance.

Check Garbage Disposal

◻️ Run cold water while operating the disposal.

◻️ Listen for grinding or unusual noises.

◻️ Check underneath for leaks.

☐◻️ Verify it drains properly.

Tip: Never place grease, bones, or fibrous foods into the disposal.

Inspect Dishwasher

◻️ Check supply and drain hose connections.

◻️ Look underneath for leaks.

◻️ Inspect around the door seal.

◻️ Run a short cycle and verify proper draining.

Check Washing Machine

◻️ Inspect water supply hoses for cracks or bulges.

◻️ Look for rust or corrosion on connections.

◻️ Ensure the drain hose is secure.

◻️ Check for leaks during operation.

Best Practice: Replace rubber hoses every few years or upgrade to braided stainless steel hoses.

Inspect Water Heater

◻️ Check for leaks around the tank.

◻️ Look for rust or corrosion.

◻️ Verify the temperature setting is appropriate.

◻️ Inspect the pressure relief valve discharge pipe.

◻️ Listen for popping or rumbling sounds.

◻️ Check around the base for moisture.

Warning: Never attempt repairs on gas or electrical components unless qualified.

Check Shut-Off Valves

◻️ Test sink shut-off valves.

◻️ Test toilet shut-off valves.

◻️ Verify the main shut-off valve can be operated.

Tip: Exercising valves monthly helps prevent them from sticking.

Inspect Outdoor Plumbing

◻️ Check hose bibs for leaks.

◻️ Inspect garden hoses.

◻️ Look for damaged irrigation lines.

◻️ Check outdoor faucets for proper operation.

◻️ Verify no standing water is collecting around outdoor plumbing.

Check for Water Damage

◻️ Inspect ceilings for stains.

◻️ Check walls around plumbing fixtures.

◻️ Look inside cabinets.

◻️ Inspect floors for soft spots or swelling.

◻️ Check for mold or mildew odors.

Monitor Water Pressure

◻️ Notice if water pressure seems unusually high or low.

◻️ Test pressure with a gauge if available.

Best Practice: Typical residential pressure is generally between 40 and 60 PSI.

Update Maintenance Records

◻️ Record any issues found.

◻️ Take photographs of problem areas.

◻️ Schedule needed repairs.

◻️ Keep receipts and service records.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Ignoring small drips.

❌ Using chemical drain cleaners too often.

❌ Forgetting to inspect behind appliances.

❌ Waiting until a leak becomes an emergency.

❌ Never testing shut-off valves.

❌ Overlooking outdoor plumbing fixtures.

❌ Ignoring unusual plumbing sounds.

❌ Failing to keep maintenance records.

Safety, Quality, or Success Tips

  • Always know where your main water shut-off valve is.
  • Wear gloves when inspecting drains.
  • Use a flashlight to inspect dark areas.
  • Fix minor leaks quickly.
  • Keep storage away from plumbing equipment for easier inspections.
  • Teach family members where emergency shut-off valves are located.
  • Schedule annual professional plumbing inspections for a deeper evaluation.

Final Review Checklist

◻️ All faucets inspected.

◻️ All toilets tested.

◻️ All drains checked.

◻️ Water heater inspected.

◻️ Washing machine connections inspected.

◻️ Dishwasher connections inspected.

◻️ Outdoor plumbing checked.

◻️ Shut-off valves tested.

◻️ Water meter checked for hidden leaks.

◻️ Maintenance notes updated.

◻️ Repairs scheduled if necessary.

When to Get Help

Contact a licensed plumber if you discover:

  • Hidden leaks
  • Water damage inside walls
  • Sewer odors
  • Major corrosion
  • Burst pipes
  • Repeated drain backups
  • Low water pressure throughout the home
  • Water heater leaks
  • Gas water heater concerns
  • Main sewer line issues
  • Frozen or damaged pipes
  • Any plumbing problem you are not comfortable repairing yourself

Professional help can prevent larger and more expensive problems later.