Plumbing Inspection in Lanham, MD

Local conditions in Lanham

Lanham is a fully built-out inner suburb along the Capital Beltway next to the New Carrollton Metro and Amtrak station. The Lanham mailing address reaches beyond the community's own boundaries, taking in Seabrook. Much of the housing dates to the 1960s, so expect a plumber to look closely at galvanized supply pipe, cast iron drains and stacks, original gate valves and sewer laterals.

WSSC Water provides water and sewer. WSSC owns the service line from the main to the property line, and the customer owns the part from the property line into the home. WSSC says it removed all known lead pipe from its distribution system in the early 2000s, and its What's Your Pipe Type? program and inventory map identify customer-side materials, with verification, replacement and funding prioritized for those at greatest risk. WSSC also notes some customer-side galvanized lines need replacement.

WSSC disinfects with chlorine and adds a corrosion inhibitor that protects pipes on the customer side too. Water and sewer emergencies go to 301-206-4002.

Typical findings in a 1960s house

Signs to watch for

• Pressure drops when a second fixture is turned on
• Brown water after the house sits overnight
• Basement floor drain backs up or smells
• A gas water heater or furnace past its expected life

Timing and permits

Schedule early in the inspection window to allow time for a camera run. Late fall is a good time to check outdoor faucets and pipes in exterior walls before freezing weather. Repairs need a WSSC Water permit, since Prince George's County DPIE issues no plumbing permits, and the county says a water heater replacement needs one. Gas water heater and furnace swaps must be done by a gasfitter holding a WSSC license. Washington Gas serves most of the area, though BGE serves some Prince George's addresses: if you smell gas, leave, then call 911 and 844-WASHGAS (844-927-4427), option 1, or the utility on your bill.