Plumbing Inspection Before Buying a Home in Metro Detroit

A general home inspector checks the plumbing system visually — they run the faucets, flush the toilets, and look for obvious leaks. What they don't do is camera-inspect the sewer line, pressure-test the supply system, or assess the condition of pipes inside the walls.

In Metro Detroit, where a significant portion of the housing stock was built before 1970, this matters. Homes from that era may have original galvanized steel supply lines, clay tile sewer lines, or cast iron drain-waste-vent systems — all of which can be in various states of deterioration.

A dedicated plumbing inspection from Plumb-O-Matic includes: camera inspection of the main sewer line from the cleanout to the city connection, pressure testing of the supply system to identify hidden leaks, visual assessment of all accessible supply and drain lines, water heater age and condition assessment, and a written report with our findings and recommendations.

The sewer line camera inspection is the most important part. We've found collapsed sewer lines, severe root intrusion, and bellied pipe in homes that passed general inspection. A sewer line replacement can cost $5,000 to $15,000 — knowing about it before you close gives you negotiating leverage.

We offer pre-purchase plumbing inspections across all 7 Metro Detroit locations. Call 313-427-4780 to schedule. We can typically accommodate same-week appointments.