Is it really necessary to check your exposed supply pipes for corrosion and damp?

It's recommended but situational: worth doing for many homes, though skipping it won't usually cause damage on its own.

How often should you check your exposed supply pipes for corrosion and damp?

Quick answer: Once a year. Green crust on copper or damp at a joint is the warning before a pinhole leak starts soaking a wall cavity.

Why it matters

Prevents costly damage

Skipping it eventually leads to water damage or an expensive repair.

Staying on schedule matters beyond the repair bill: a consistent maintenance record is one of the factors in a home's Roots Home Health Score, and well-kept homes typically sell faster and closer to asking price.

Related systems to keep on schedule

Sump pump — start with: test sump pump operation, every 3 months
Water softener — start with: check and refill water softener salt, once a month
Water filtration system — start with: replace water filtration cartridges, every 6 months
Septic system — start with: pump septic tank, every 3 years

The bottom line

“According to Roots' home maintenance model, you should check your exposed supply pipes for corrosion and damp once a year. It's a recommended task for many homes with a water supply piping.” — Roots home maintenance model

Free tool Get your home's full maintenance checklist This is one of dozens of tasks your home needs. Answer three quick questions and get a seasonal checklist tuned to your home. It takes about 30 seconds and there is no signup.

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Frequently asked questions

How often should you check your exposed supply pipes for corrosion and damp?: Once a year. Green crust on copper or damp at a joint is the warning before a pinhole leak starts soaking a wall cavity.
Is it really necessary to check your exposed supply pipes for corrosion and damp?: It’s recommended but situational: worth doing for many homes, though skipping it won’t usually cause damage on its own.

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