Plumbing Inspection in Great Falls, VA

What happens when you call

You're connected with an independent local plumber who works in Great Falls. Tell them first whether the house is on a private well or Fairfax Water, and whether it's on public sewer or a private onsite wastewater system, because that decides what equipment they bring and how long the visit takes. Add the year built and any contract deadlines.

What affects the cost

• House size, number of baths and number of water heaters
• Well pump, pressure tank and treatment equipment to evaluate
• Camera run of the drain line to the street or to the onsite system
• Irrigation, pool or outbuilding water lines
• Whether you need written findings

Local conditions in Great Falls

Great Falls is largely a bedroom community on the Potomac's Virginia bank, partly rural, with big lots and Great Falls Park nearby. The median home was built around 1985. The local citizens association notes that many homes rely on private wells, while some neighborhoods are served by Fairfax Water, and that many homes aren't on public sewer. It recommends testing a well every year, and sooner if the water's smell, taste or appearance changes, and it says onsite systems need routine pumping and inspection.

For well homes, a plumbing inspection looks at the pump controls, pressure tank, pressure switch and any treatment equipment, and listens for short-cycling. For homes on Fairfax Water, the owner has the pipe from the meter to the house, and lawn irrigation needs a backflow assembly tested when installed and every year after. Well water testing and onsite system pumping are separate services, but the plumber's report helps you know what to ask for.

Fairfax County requires a permit for gas water heater and furnace replacements even like-for-like. Washington Gas serves gas customers here; if you smell gas, leave the house, then call 911 and 844-WASHGAS (844-927-4427), option 1.

Short checklist before the plumber arrives

• Find out whether the house uses a well or Fairfax Water, and public sewer or an onsite system
• Gather any well test results and pumping records
• Clear access to the well equipment, water heater and main shutoff
• Note pressure drops, odd tastes or slow drains