When inspecting plumbing, what must the inspector ensure regarding drainage?

When inspecting plumbing, the inspector must ensure that it is functioning properly. This entails verifying that all components in the plumbing system are operating as intended, without any blockages, leaks, or signs of deterioration. Proper functioning of drainage is crucial to prevent water damage, avoid health hazards from sewage backflow, and ensure that the plumbing system effectively removes wastewater from the property.

In addition to functionality, while aspects like accessibility and size are also important in a comprehensive inspection, they don't directly address the immediate requirement of ensuring that the drainage system operates correctly. For instance, even if drainage is easily accessible, if it is not functioning properly, it would lead to significant issues in the home. Similarly, while interconnected systems can impact overall performance, what the inspector prioritizes is the operational capability of the drainage system itself. Thus, confirming that the drainage is functioning properly is a vital responsibility of a home inspector.