Moving House Plumbing Checklist
Essential plumbing checks and tasks when moving into a new home
When to Use This Checklist:
Complete this checklist during the first week in your new home.
Moving into a new home is exciting, but taking time to understand and check your plumbing system can prevent nasty surprises. This checklist covers everything from locating stopcocks to checking for hidden leaks.
1. Essential Locations
Find the internal stopcockImportant
Usually under the kitchen sink. Test it turns - they can seize up if not used.
Locate the external stopcock
Usually in the pavement outside. You may need a stopcock key to operate it.
Find the gas meter and valveImportant
Know where to turn off gas in an emergency.
Locate water meter
Often near the external stopcock. Note the reading for billing purposes.
Find the boiler and controls
Get familiar with your heating system and locate the user manual.
2. Water System Checks
Test water pressure
Run multiple taps simultaneously. Poor pressure may need investigation.
Check for leaks
Look under all sinks, around toilets, and in airing cupboards for signs of moisture.
Inspect visible pipes
Look for corrosion, green staining on copper, or signs of previous repairs.
Run all taps
Check hot and cold water works at every outlet. Note any discoloration.
Flush all toilets
Check they fill and flush properly without running constantly.
3. Heating System
Check boiler service dateImportant
Ask for service records. Book a service if no recent record exists.
Test heating
Run the central heating and check all radiators get warm.
Bleed radiators
Release any air trapped in the system.
Check boiler pressure
Should be between 1-1.5 bar when cold.
Test hot water
Check how long it takes to get hot water at all outlets.
4. Drains & Waste
Test all drains
Fill sinks and baths then release - water should drain quickly without gurgling.
Check external drains
Lift inspection chamber covers and check for blockages or root ingress.
Run washing machine/dishwasher
Ensure waste pipes drain properly without leaks.
Check for smells
Bad odours from drains can indicate blockages or dry traps.
💡 Helpful Tips
- ✓Request all service records and manuals from the previous owner
- ✓Consider a full plumbing inspection for older properties
- ✓Label stopcocks and valves for easy identification in emergencies
- ✓Take meter readings and photos on moving day for accurate billing
⚠️ Important Warnings
- !Old lead pipes should be replaced - common in pre-1970 properties
- !If the stopcock won't turn, don't force it - call a plumber
- !Blue or green staining indicates copper corrosion that may need attention
Need Professional Help?
If any of these tasks seem complex or you'd prefer professional assistance, we offer the following services:
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