About Ernie's Plumbing in Vancouver, WA

A comprehensive plumbing inspection allows our licensed technicians to proactively test every shutoff valve in your home—under sinks, behind toilets, and at the main water line. In Vancouver, where older valves often seize or corrode, we check for stiffness, minor leaks, and wear. If we find a valve that's failing, we can replace it during the inspection, preventing a future emergency where you can't stop the water flow during a leak or repair.

During our inspection, we specifically examine your pipes for signs of corrosion common in our area, such as discoloration, pitting, flaking, or green/blue deposits on copper pipes. We check areas prone to moisture, like under sinks and in crawl spaces. Identifying early-stage corrosion lets us recommend targeted repairs or protective measures, potentially saving you from a burst pipe and extensive water damage down the line.

We recommend a professional plumbing inspection every 1-2 years for most Vancouver homes, especially those built before 1990. Given our local issues with valve failure and pipe corrosion, regular check-ups help catch problems early. It's also wise to schedule an inspection before buying an older home or if you notice signs like reduced water pressure, discolored water, or a persistent musty smell, which can indicate hidden corrosion.