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How Often Should You Have Your Plumbing Inspected? 

How Often Should You Have Your Plumbing Inspected? 

25 July 2026 6 min read

You know that sick feeling when the kitchen sink suddenly backs up on a Sunday night. Or worse when you come home to water leaking through the ceiling. These surprises happen far too often in Brisbane homes. The truth is most of them could be avoided with a simple plumbing inspection at the right time. At Mount Lion Plumbing we have seen it again and again. A quick check today can save you thousands tomorrow. 

 Waiting for trouble is the most expensive way to handle your plumbing. Regular checks help find issues before they become major problems. This guide will tell you how often you need a plumbing check, what it should include and why it is important for your household. 

 

Why You Should Not Wait for Problems 

The thing about plumbing is that you do not see the problem, like a drip from the plumbing or a tiny crack in it until it is too late and the issue is really bad. That is where regular plumbing inspections make all the difference. They spot issues like corrosion tree roots or blocked lines long before you get that expensive surprise. 

In older Queenslander homes we often find pipes that have been quietly degrading for decades. One early plumbing inspection can pick up wear that would otherwise lead to burst pipes during our heavy summer rains. We had a job in Paddington last year where the owners booked us just for peace of mind. The camera showed roots starting to push into a join. We cleared it early and saved them what would have been a five figure repair bill six months later. 

 

How Often Should You Book a Plumbing Inspection 

For most Brisbane homes we recommend a full residential plumbing inspection every two years. If your house is more than 20 years old or you have had past issues then once a year is smarter. Think of it like a car service. You would not drive for five years without a check up. 

New homes usually need to be checked every three years. If you notice that the water is not flowing right or you hear strange noises, you should check them more often. The small cost of an inspection is nothing compared to water damage or sewage cleanup. 

We also suggest a sewer inspection and drain inspection when you buy or sell a property. Buyers who skip this step often regret it within the first wet season. 

 

What Happens During a Proper Plumbing Inspection 

A thorough check is more than just turning on taps. Our team uses cameras and pressure gauges to look inside your pipes. We check for cracks blockages and early signs of wear. 

This usually includes a pipe inspection to spot corrosion or joint problems. We do a water leak inspection to find hidden drips that push up your bills. Water backflow testing makes sure dirty water cannot flow back into your clean supply. Many homeowners ask about sewer line inspection cost during these visits. In Brisbane you can expect to pay between $300 and $600 depending on how many lines we need to check and whether we use a full CCTV camera run. 

We once inspected a home in The Gap where the owner thought everything was fine. The pipe inspection showed a slow leak in the underground sewer that had already rotted part of a timber bearer. Because we caught it the repair was straightforward and cheap. Had it gone unnoticed the whole floor may have needed replacing. 

 

Signs It Is Time for a Plumbing Inspection Right Now 

Do not wait for the two year mark if you notice these red flags: 

  • Slow draining sinks or showers that keep getting worse 
  • Gurgling sounds from the toilet 
  • Unexplained wet spots in the yard 
  • Higher than normal water bills 
  • Musty smells near drains 

Any of these can mean you need plumbing inspection services sooner rather than later. We got called to a house in Sunnybank Hills after the owner noticed green grass growing faster in one strip of lawn. The drain inspection found a cracked pipe leaking straight into the soil. Fixed early it cost less than a tenth of what a full sewer collapse would have run. 

 

The Real Value of Preventative Plumbing Maintenance 

Good plumbing maintenance services are all about stopping trouble before it starts. This is true preventative plumbing maintenance. It keeps your hot water system running efficiently lowers your water bills and gives you peace of mind during our wild Brisbane storms. 

We tell every customer that early action protects the biggest investment most families ever make. Their home. A small plumbing inspection now can avoid mould structural damage and emergency call out fees later. Our regular clients who book yearly checks almost never need major repairs. 

 

Choosing the Right Team for the Job 

Not every plumber offers the same level of plumbing inspection services. A good plumber will use a camera to inspect your plumbing system. We will always tell you what we find in a way that’s easy to understand. We will give you options for what to do without trying to get you to make a decision right away. We will explain everything, about the plumbing inspection services that we provide. 

Do not leave your plumbing to chance. Call Mount Lion Plumbing today and book your plumbing inspection. Our local team will give you straight answers a clear report and practical advice to keep your Brisbane home flowing smoothly for years to come. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How much does a plumbing inspection cost in Brisbane?
For homes in Brisbane the cost of a plumbing inspection in Brisbane can be between $300 and $600. This really depends on how detailed the plumbing inspection needs to be.  

What is included in a full plumbing inspection?
We check drains pipes leaks and do water backflow testing where needed. 

How often do I need a sewer line inspection?
Every two years is enough for most homes unless you spot warning signs. 

Can a plumbing inspection find hidden water leaks?
Yes our camera and pressure tests pick up leaks you cannot see. 

Is a plumbing inspection worth it when buying a house?
Absolutely. It can save you from expensive repairs after settlement. 

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