Commercial Plumbing Maintenance Checklist

Commercial Plumbing Maintenance Checklist for Property Managers

Managing a commercial property comes with many responsibilities, one of the most critical being the upkeep of its plumbing system. When a property’s plumbing system declines, a range of issues can emerge, from costly repairs and safety concerns, to frustrating disruptions, causing a headache for any property manager.  

Using and sticking to a commercial property maintenance checklist is key to preventing these problems and running and maintaining an efficient commercial property. 

In this guide, we’ll outline the importance of regular plumbing maintenance, and delve into what’s involved in monthly, quarterly, bi-annual and annual maintenance tasks.

The importance of regular plumbing maintenance

Regular plumbing maintenance is crucial for commercial properties to ensure their plumbing systems operate efficiently and their tenants remain comfortable and satisfied. 

By addressing potential issues early, property managers can save on repair costs and prevent significant disruptions. 

Using a commercial property maintenance checklist is a proactive measure with several major benefits for a building’s plumbing system, including:

• Cost savings: When commercial plumbing problems like clogged drains, leaky pipes and water heater issues are either put off, or go unnoticed, they can quickly become expensive repairs that could’ve been avoided. With regular maintenance practices, property managers can detect minor issues early, preventing them from escalating into costly repairs. 
• Safety: Plumbing systems in commercial properties must comply with safety regulations and building codes. With that said, using a preventative maintenance checklist can help commercial property managers quickly identify any safety hazards, such as water damage or hidden leaks, allowing for well-maintained and safe plumbing systems. 
• Efficiency: Appliances, pipes and fixtures deteriorate over time, leading to water wastage issues like leaky taps and running toilets. With a plumbing preventative maintenance checklist, property managers can identify these inefficiency issues early, and take action by installing fitting upgrades and performing repairs to maintain efficiency.

What’s involved in a monthly inspection checklist?

Commercial property managers who use a monthly inspection checklist have a greater chance of identifying and addressing minor issues before they escalate. 

Key tasks of a monthly checklist include:

1. Checking for visible leaks: A dripping tap can waste in excess of 20,000 litres of water over the course of a year. Performing monthly inspections can help property managers stay on top of leaking issues before they get out of control. This usually involves inspecting all accessible areas for visible leaks and signs of water damage.
2. Inspecting fixtures: We understand the duties of a property manager are time consuming, but scheduling time each month to test the building’s faucets, fixtures and drains helps ensure they are operating correctly.
3. Monitoring water pressure: Commercial buildings with reduced water pressure can result in slow water flow, while high water pressure can strain the plumbing system, damaging fixtures and pipes. A monthly water pressure test ensures the building’s water pressure is within the recommended range.

What are quarterly maintenance tasks?

Quarterly maintenance tasks are more in-depth than monthly checks, and they help maintain the efficiency and longevity of the property’s plumbing system. Here are some key tasks involved in a quarterly maintenance checklist:

1. Flushing water heaters: Tenants rely on water heaters for daily use, and this frequency can cause a build-up of sediment and minerals to accumulate at the bottom of the tank. Flushing water heaters on a quarterly basis removes sediment build-up, helping to maintain a heater’s efficiency and lifespan.
2. Cleaning aerators and filters: When aerators and filters are undermaintained, they can cause unpleasant clogging issues and reduce water flow. Because of this, it’s important to clean aerators and filters in faucets and fixtures every quarter to maintain adequate water flow and quality.
3. Testing backflow prevention devices: Adding backflow testing to a quarterly checklist is essential for ensuring no contaminated water runs through the property’s plumbing system. Performing these tests also helps identify any potential issues with related devices, allowing a property manager to address them early before they become costly. A commercial plumber is capable of successfully performing backflow prevention and testing.

What can you expect from bi-annual and annual maintenance inspections?

Routine monthly and quarterly checks are an excellent way to stay on top of minor plumbing maintenance. However, it’s imperative to seek the services of professional plumbers to perform more comprehensive bi-annual and annual maintenance inspections.

With over 40 years of experience in commercial plumbing maintenance, our team at PBR Plumbing know all too well how important these checks are to maintain a commercial building’s plumbing integrity. 

Here’s what you can expect from our bi-annual and annual maintenance inspections:

1. Comprehensive system inspection: A thorough inspection of the building’s entire plumbing system.
2. CCTV sewer line and drain inspection: Using advanced CCTV drain inspection technology, our team can assess the building’s sewerage pipes, or main plumbing system to accurately detect any blockages or damage in the sewer lines or drains.
3. Hydro-jetting services: Using high-pressure water, upwards of 5,000 psi, Hydro jetting effectively removes debris and blockages from blocked drains.
4. Reviewing water usage: Our team can analyse the building’s water usage and efficiency, identifying areas for potential upgrades or repairs.

How do you maintain your roofing and gutters?

Roofing and gutter systems play an instrumental role in a building’s structural integrity. If a property manager neglects to maintain a building’s roofing and gutter systems, a host of unwelcome problems can arise, including water damage, structural damage and collapsing gutters.

Thankfully, including roofing and gutter maintenance

 in your commercial property maintenance checklist can help you avoid these issues and keep your building structurally sound. Here’s how you can achieve this:

• Clearing debris: It’s important to routinely clear the building’s gutters to prevent water pooling and leaks. Having your gutters free of debris will also help the building reflect the sun’s rays, leading to improved energy efficiency during those hot summer days. For large scale commercial buildings and warehouses, employing a professional to conduct gutter cleaning ensures the prevention of water damage and maintains the structural integrity of the property.
• Inspecting roof membranes: Check roof membranes and flashing for signs of wear and damage. Making this a regular practice can help detect vulnerabilities early before they become costly expenses.
• Leak detection and repair: Employing regular roof leak detection and repair services as needed can help protect the building from water damage.

What are the best preventative measures and tips?

We understand that commercial property managers have a busy schedule, which is why we have put together the following preventative measures and tips to make your plumbing maintenance duties easier:

1. Install water sensors: Water sensors and leak detection systems catch issues early, ensuring no leaks avoid your notice.
2. Maintain a logbook: Keep a detailed maintenance logbook to track completed tasks and upcoming inspections, allowing you to stay updated and ahead of schedule.
3. Train your staff: Train your on-site maintenance staff to identify and report plumbing issues promptly.
4. Choose the right partner: Partner with a professional plumbing service like PBR Plumbing for commercial maintenance and emergency repairs whenever you require them, allowing you to concentrate on other critical aspects of property management.

Why partner with PBR Plumbing for professional services?

PBR Plumbing offers expert plumbing maintenance and roofing maintenance services tailored for commercial and industrial properties. With our team of experienced professionals, we ensure your plumbing system is well-maintained and any issues are promptly addressed. 

Partnering with PBR Plumbing provides the peace 

of mind that your property is in capable hands, minimising disruptions and maintaining tenant satisfaction. Key benefits you’ll receive from partnering with PBR Plumbing include:

• Expertise: Our team has extensive experience in handling the unique plumbing needs of commercial properties.
• Professionalism: We provide consistent, high-quality maintenance and emergency repair services, which we deliver on-time, as arranged.
• Comprehensive services: From routine inspections to advanced diagnostics, installations and repairs, we cover all aspects of commercial plumbing maintenance.

Partner with PBR Plumbing to effectively maintain your commercial property

Regular upkeep helps to maintain the lifespan of your plumbing system and greatly reduces needless repair costs and disruptions. 

At PBR Plumbing, we’re here to make sure your plumbing and roofing system systems are in optimal condition all year round, leaving you more time to oversee other pressing matters. 

For professional commercial maintenance and repair services, or to schedule a consultation, contact our friendly team today.