Plumbing Pressure Testing Services
Certified pre-drywall and new construction plumbing pressure testing throughout Metro Vancouver and British Columbia.
Professional Plumbing System Pressure Testing
Plumbing pressure testing is a mandatory requirement for new construction and major renovation projects in British Columbia. This critical verification process ensures that all water supply piping, drainage systems, and plumbing fixtures are properly installed and leak-free before walls are closed and finishes are applied.
PressureTesting.ca provides comprehensive plumbing pressure testing services that meet BC Building Code and plumbing code requirements. Our certified technicians conduct thorough pressure tests on residential, commercial, and multi-family plumbing systems, providing detailed documentation for building inspectors, contractors, and property owners.
Pre-drywall testing is essential because it allows defects to be identified and corrected while piping is still accessible. Once drywall is installed, repairing leaks becomes exponentially more expensive, requiring wall removal, remediation, and reconstruction. A proper pressure test before concealment protects your investment and prevents costly post-construction failures.
Plumbing Testing Services
Residential Plumbing Testing
- Single-family home plumbing pressure tests
- Addition and renovation plumbing verification
- Bathroom and kitchen rough-in testing
- Hot water heating system testing
- Underground service line testing
Commercial & Multi-Family
- High-rise plumbing riser testing
- Strata and condominium plumbing systems
- Commercial building plumbing verification
- Multi-unit residential testing
- Hotel and hospitality plumbing systems
BC Plumbing Code Requirements
Mandatory Testing Standards
The BC Plumbing Code requires all new plumbing installations to be pressure tested before concealment. Test requirements include:
- Water Supply Systems: 100 PSI minimum test pressure for 2 hours (or 1.5x working pressure, whichever is greater)
- Drainage Systems: 10 feet head of water (approximately 5 PSI) for minimum 15 minutes
- No Visible Leaks: System must show zero leakage at all joints, fittings, and connections
- Pressure Drop: Maximum allowable pressure drop is 5 PSI over test duration
- Documentation: Written test report must be provided to building inspector
When is Testing Required?
- All new construction plumbing installations
- Additions and renovations affecting plumbing systems
- Before drywall, flooring, or other concealment materials are installed
- Underground piping before backfill and concrete pour
- After any major plumbing repairs or modifications
- For building permit final inspection approval
Common Plumbing Test Failures
Understanding common causes of test failures helps contractors prevent issues:
- Improper Joint Assembly: PEX crimp connections not fully compressed, copper solder joints with incomplete fusion
- Damaged Piping: Nails, screws, or staples penetrating pipes during framing or installation
- Missed Caps: Test plugs not installed on all outlets, shower arms, and fixture connections
- Air in System: Incomplete venting causes false pressure readings and test failures
- Thermal Expansion: Temperature changes during test can affect pressure readings
Why Choose Professional Testing?
Inspector Acceptance
Our test reports are recognized and accepted by all municipal building inspectors across BC. We know exactly what documentation is required for permit approval.
Accurate Equipment
Calibrated digital pressure gauges and proper test pumps ensure accurate readings. We use professional-grade equipment specifically designed for plumbing testing.
Expert Leak Location
If leaks are found, our experienced technicians can help identify the exact location and cause, minimizing repair time and cost.
Fast Turnaround
We understand construction schedules. Same-day and next-day testing available to keep your project on track.
Schedule Your Plumbing Pressure Test
Don't delay your project with failed inspections. Professional plumbing pressure testing ensures code compliance and protects against costly post-construction leaks.