FOCUS BUILDING INSPECTIONS
Experienced. Professional. Consistently Excellent.
Focus Building Inspections Blog - Commercial Inspector Oklahoma.jpg

Commercial Real Estate Blog

Expert Advice on Commercial Inspections

What You Need to Know About Commercial Plumbing Issues

71% of Our Clients Are Concerned About Commercial Plumbing Systems — Here’s What You Need to Know

When clients schedule a commercial property inspection, 71% express concern about plumbing systems. It's easy to understand why. Plumbing is largely hidden, costly to repair, and critical to everyday operations. Whether it’s a retail center, office, restaurant, or warehouse, plumbing problems can disrupt business, create health hazards, and rack up expenses fast.

In this post, we’ll cover:

  • Why plumbing systems are a top concern

  • 5 common plumbing issues we uncover in commercial properties

  • What our commercial plumbing inspection includes

  • What you can do to prevent major plumbing problems

Let’s explore what you need to know.

Why Are Clients So Concerned About Plumbing?

There are a few reasons plumbing frequently rises to the top of the worry list for our clients:

1. Most Plumbing Is Hidden

Pipes are buried in walls, ceilings, and slabs. Unlike a roof or HVAC unit, you can’t just “look” at a plumbing system. Problems often remain undetected until they cause significant damage.

2. Leaks Can Be Destructive and Expensive

A single leaking pipe or valve can result in mold, drywall destruction, flooring damage, or rot. When the leak goes undetected, the damage spreads quickly and the remediation costs soar.

3. Older Materials Cause Risk

Many older buildings still have galvanized steel, cast iron, or even polybutylene piping—all materials that are prone to failure over time. Clients want to know: Is this system about to cost me money?

4. Plumbing Affects Occupant Safety

Issues like cross-connections, backflow preventers, or code violations aren’t just mechanical—they can pose a threat to water quality and occupant health.

5 Common Issues With Commercial Plumbing Systems

71% of Our Clients Are Concerned About Commercial Plumbing Systems — Here’s What You Need to Know- Focus Building Inspections

Our commercial inspections regularly reveal these plumbing system red flags:

1. Pipe Corrosion and Leaks

Older pipes—especially galvanized steel or copper with improper fittings—show signs of corrosion, mineral buildup, or slow leaks. Corroded pipes restrict flow and are more likely to burst or clog.

2. Slow or Clogged Drains

In retail or restaurant spaces, drains often become clogged due to grease, debris, or improper installation. We check for signs of slow drainage, standing water, or inadequate venting.

3. Water Pressure Issues

Both high and low water pressure can signal underlying problems. Low pressure may indicate a leak or corrosion, while high pressure stresses pipes and fixtures, leading to premature failure.

4. Water Heater Deficiencies

Many commercial properties rely on large water heaters or boiler systems. We frequently find expired units, poor installation, sediment buildup, or missing safety devices like T&P valves.

5. Improper Repairs or DIY Work

We often see quick fixes—mismatched fittings, unsupported pipes, or amateur soldering jobs. These may “work” temporarily but won’t hold up under commercial usage conditions.

What Our Commercial Plumbing Inspection Includes

At Focus Building Inspections, we believe the plumbing system deserves just as much attention as the structure and roof. Here’s what we evaluate during every commercial property inspection:

✔ Visual Pipe Condition Assessment

We inspect visible supply and drain piping in accessible areas—checking for corrosion, leaks, rust stains, condensation, or improper materials.

✔ Fixture Testing

We operate all accessible sinks, toilets, urinals, tubs, and floor drains. This helps identify slow drainage, pressure problems, leaks, or faulty valves.

✔ Water Heater & Boiler Review

We assess water heating systems for age, function, installation quality, insulation, venting, and safety features. We check for active leaks or corrosion around units.

✔ Backflow & Safety Devices

We note the presence or absence of required backflow preventers, anti-siphon valves, and vacuum breakers, particularly for irrigation or commercial kitchen setups.

✔ Drainage Observations

We observe the speed of drainage at multiple fixtures, check for signs of cross-connections, and look for indications of plumbing vent issues.

✔ Opinion of Cost & Long-Term Recommendations

If we discover deteriorated piping, improper installations, or signs of widespread failure, we provide a non-binding Opinion of Cost along with long-term replacement or upgrade suggestions.

How to Stay Ahead of Plumbing Problems

Proactive care goes a long way when it comes to plumbing systems. Here’s how you can reduce plumbing risk in your building:

➤ Know Your Pipe Materials

Determine what kind of supply and drain pipes your building has. Galvanized steel or cast iron? You may be overdue for a replacement. Copper or PEX? You’re likely in better shape.

➤ Flush the System Annually

Annual flushing of the plumbing system—especially water heaters and pipes in low-use areas—prevents sediment buildup and bacterial growth (like Legionella).

➤ Insulate Pipes in Unconditioned Spaces

Freezing pipes aren’t just a residential problem. Commercial properties with rooftop or exterior wall piping are also vulnerable.

➤ Invest in Leak Detection Technology

Smart sensors can detect drips, flow anomalies, or sudden pressure changes. These tools are invaluable in large buildings with multiple units or restrooms.

➤ Schedule Periodic Professional Plumbing Inspections

We recommend a licensed plumber or plumbing inspector examine your system every few years—even between sales or tenant changes. This can help you budget for eventual repairs or upgrades and catch hidden problems early.

Focus Building Inspections - Serving OK, AR, KS, MO - Commercial Property Inspection Assessment.png

Conclusion: Don’t Let Plumbing Problems Drain Your Resources

Plumbing systems are often ignored—until they fail. Our commercial clients are right to ask about pipe conditions, drainage, and water quality. A thorough inspection can uncover costly risks and give you a roadmap to protect your investment.

Don’t let hidden plumbing problems cost you thousands in repairs or lost productivity. If 71% of our clients are concerned about plumbing systems, you’re not alone—and you’re right to be cautious.

At Focus Building Inspections, we deliver in-depth plumbing system evaluations designed to reveal risks before they become emergencies.

Want Peace of Mind About Your Plumbing System?

Schedule your inspection or contact us for a custom proposal. Our inspections are designed to give you real answers—before problems arise.

Questions This Article Answers

  1. Why are commercial plumbing systems a top concern during property inspections?

  2. What are the hidden risks associated with commercial plumbing systems?

  3. How can undetected plumbing leaks cause financial and structural damage?

  4. Why are older plumbing materials problematic in commercial buildings?

  5. What health hazards can be caused by plumbing issues in commercial properties?

  6. What are the most common plumbing issues found during commercial inspections?

  7. What does a comprehensive commercial plumbing inspection include?

  8. How can water heater or boiler issues affect building performance?

  9. What steps can building owners take to maintain plumbing systems proactively?

  10. Why should commercial properties invest in leak detection and regular inspections?

Bibliography / Resources

PlumbingBritFocus Building InspectionsCommercial Inspector, Commercial Building Inspection, Property Condition Assessment