Plumbing Inspection in Glenn Dale, MD

Is an inspection worth it when the house is only a few decades old?

Usually. The median Glenn Dale home was built around 1991, so many houses are now at the point where the original water heater, supply hoses, toilet fill valves, pressure-reducing valves and sump pumps wear out. A plumber also checks how a finished basement was plumbed, whether the main shutoff still closes, and whether an outdoor faucet or irrigation line has a working backflow device. None of that shows up on a quick walk-through by a general home inspector.

Who owns which part of the water line?

Glenn Dale is generally served by WSSC Water, though it's worth confirming on the bill for the specific address. WSSC is responsible for the service line from the main to the property line, and the owner is responsible from the property line into the house, so a leak between the curb and the foundation is on you. WSSC publishes an interactive service line inventory map and asks customers to help verify their pipe material. It says it removed all known lead pipes from its distribution system in the early 2000s. Water and sewer emergencies go to WSSC at 301-206-4002.

What if the house has lawn sprinklers?

Many Glenn Dale lots do. WSSC requires testable backflow assemblies, such as those on irrigation and some fire sprinkler systems, to be tested every year and after installation, repair or relocation, by a plumber holding a WSSC license who is also a certified cross-connection technician. Homeowners may only rebuild or replace non-testable devices. Ask the seller for the last test report, and have the plumber note the device and its condition.

One local note

Plumbing and gas permits in Glenn Dale come from WSSC Water Permit Services (301-206-4003), while building permits for this unincorporated area go through Prince George's County DPIE in Largo. Gas service varies by address here, since Washington Gas serves most of the county but BGE serves some areas. If you smell gas, leave first, then call 911 and the utility on your bill. Mention any finished basement, added bathroom or sump pit when you call, so the plumber plans time for those areas.