Real Findings

🔧 Plumbing Failures Found in Ottawa Homes

Real plumbing defects and failures documented during home inspections across Ottawa and surrounding areas.

🏠 Roof Failures 🌬️ Attic & Ventilation Issues ⚡ Electrical Failures 🌡️ Heating & Cooling Failures 🧱 Insulation Issues 🔧 Plumbing Failures 🏗️ Structural Issues 🪟 Interior Findings 🏡 Exterior Findings

What We Check

  • Supply lines — material type, pressure, shut-off valve function
  • Drain, waste, and vent system — flow, blockages, venting
  • Water heater — age, condition, temperature relief valve, venting
  • Fixtures — leaks at supply lines, drains, and shutoffs
  • Sump pump — operation, discharge line, battery backup
  • Visible pipe materials — galvanized, lead, polybutylene
  • Exterior hose bibs and shutoffs — freeze protection

Common Issues We Find

  • Galvanized steel supply pipes in older Ottawa homes — reduced flow and rust
  • Water heaters past their service life (typically 10–12 years)
  • Improper drain slope causing slow drainage and backups
  • Missing or faulty temperature pressure relief valves on water heaters
  • Sump pumps without battery backup — a risk in Ottawa wet seasons
  • Polybutylene piping — prone to failure and often uninsurable

Why This Matters

Plumbing defects range from minor maintenance items to major failures that can cause extensive water damage. Ottawa homes built before 1980 frequently have older pipe materials approaching end of life. A thorough plumbing inspection helps buyers understand current condition, upcoming replacement costs, and any immediate safety concerns.

Previous Findings

plumbing failure inspection finding Ottawa

Concerned About Your Plumbing?

Water damage is one of the most expensive repairs a homeowner can face. Know what you're buying.

Book Your Inspection