If you’re building a new home, renovating your plumbing system, or just bought property in Colorado, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Colorado, do I need to have new plumbing pressure tested?” You’re not alone—many homeowners are confused about when and why pressure testing is required. The short answer? Yes, in most cases it’s not just recommended—it’s mandatory. And for good reason: skipping this critical step can lead to hidden leaks, water damage, and costly repairs down the road.
Is Plumbing Pressure Testing Required in Colorado?
Yes—by law. Under the Colorado State Plumbing Code, which adopts the International Plumbing Code (IPC) with state-specific amendments, all new plumbing installations and substantial renovations must undergo a hydrostatic pressure test before being covered by walls, flooring, or insulation.
According to the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE), plumbing systems must be tested to ensure they’re leak-free and safe for potable water distribution. This applies to both residential and commercial projects.
“Pressure testing isn’t just a formality—it’s your first line of defense against catastrophic water damage,” says Mark Reynolds, a licensed master plumber in Denver with over 20 years of experience. “I’ve seen $10,000 in drywall and flooring ruined because someone skipped the test to ‘save time.’”
What Is a Plumbing Pressure Test?
A plumbing pressure test (often called a hydrostatic test) checks the integrity of your water supply lines by pressurizing them with air or water and monitoring for pressure drops over time.
Standard procedure in Colorado:
Isolate the entire plumbing system (or the newly installed section).
Pressurize with air or water to at least 50 psi (per IPC Section 312).
Hold pressure for a minimum of 15 minutes (some jurisdictions require up to 2 hours).
Inspect all joints, valves, and connections for leaks or pressure loss.
If pressure drops or you see moisture, the system fails—and repairs must be made before retesting.
💡 Pro Tip: Many Colorado counties (like Boulder, Arapahoe, and Jefferson) require a signed test report from a licensed plumber before issuing a certificate of occupancy.
When Is a Pressure Test Required in Colorado?
You’ll need a pressure test if you’re:
Building a new home
Installing a new main water line
Re-piping more than 50% of your home’s plumbing
Adding a bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room with new supply lines
Replacing underground water lines
Exception: Minor repairs (like swapping a faucet or fixing a single leak) usually don’t require a full system test—unless local inspectors say otherwise.
📊 Did You Know? A 2023 study by the Rocky Mountain Homebuilders Association found that 78% of plumbing-related insurance claims in Colorado stemmed from undetected leaks in untested or improperly installed systems.
What Happens If You Skip the Pressure Test?
Ignoring this step might seem like a time-saver, but the risks far outweigh any convenience:
Risk
Potential Cost
Hidden leaks behind walls
$3,000–$15,000 in water damage
Mold growth
Health hazards + remediation ($2,000+)
Failed inspection
Project delays, fines, or denied occupancy
Voided home warranty
Builder or insurer may deny coverage
In extreme cases, untested plumbing can lower your home’s resale value or trigger red flags during a home inspection.
⚠️ Real-Life Example: In 2024, a homeowner in Fort Collins faced $12,000 in damages after a hidden leak from untested PEX tubing saturated their basement over six months. The builder had skipped the test to meet a deadline—and wasn’t licensed.
How Much Does a Plumbing Pressure Test Cost in Colorado?
Costs vary by home size and plumbing complexity, but here’s a general range:
Small home (1–2 bathrooms): $150–$300
Large home (3+ bathrooms): $300–$600
Commercial or custom builds: $600–$1,200
Most licensed plumbers include this in their installation quote. Never hire someone who refuses to pressure test—it’s a red flag.
While Colorado allows homeowners to do their own plumbing in some jurisdictions (with permits), pressure testing must be performed or supervised by a licensed professional in most counties.
Why? Because:
Test results must be documented and submitted to the local building department.
Improper testing can give false confidence (e.g., testing only part of the system).
Unlicensed work may void your homeowner’s insurance in case of leaks.
Bottom line: Even if you’re handy, leave this to a pro. It’s a small investment that protects your biggest asset—your home.
Step-by-Step: What to Expect During a Pressure Test
If you’re working with a licensed plumber, here’s what typically happens:
Permit & Planning
Your plumber pulls a permit from your local building department.
The test method (air vs. water) is chosen based on code and season (air is preferred in freezing temps).
System Isolation
All fixtures are capped or plugged.
The system is sealed off from the main water supply.
Pressurization
Air is pumped in to 50–100 psi (air is safer for dry testing).
Pressure gauge is attached and monitored.
Wait & Monitor
System holds pressure for 15–120 minutes, depending on local rules.
No drop = pass. Any drop = locate and fix leaks.
Inspection & Sign-Off
A municipal inspector may witness the test.
Once passed, walls can be closed, and occupancy approved.
❄️ Cold-Weather Note: In Colorado winters, air testing is preferred—water testing can freeze and crack pipes.
FAQ: Plumbing Pressure Testing in Colorado
Q1: How long does a plumbing pressure test take?
A: Typically 30–90 minutes, including setup and inspection. Larger systems may take up to 2 hours.
Q2: Can PEX plumbing be pressure tested?
A: Yes—absolutely. PEX is commonly used in Colorado and must be tested like any other pipe material. It’s actually more flexible and less prone to cracking during air tests.
Q3: What psi is required for a Colorado plumbing test?
A: The IPC (adopted by Colorado) requires a minimum of 50 psi for at least 15 minutes. Some municipalities, like Denver, require 80 psi for 2 hours for new construction.
Q4: Do I need a pressure test for a tankless water heater install?
A: Only if new supply lines are run. If you’re just swapping the unit on existing lines, no test is needed—unless local code says otherwise.
Q5: Who can perform the test in Colorado?
A: A licensed Colorado plumber or, in rare owner-builder cases, the homeowner under supervision and with inspector approval.
Q6: What if my system fails the test?
A: The plumber will locate the leak (often using acoustic tools or visual inspection), make repairs, and retest at no extra permit cost—though labor may apply.
Conclusion: Don’t Skip This Critical Step
So, “Colorado, do I need to have new plumbing pressure tested?” Yes—almost always. It’s a non-negotiable part of safe, code-compliant plumbing that protects your home, your health, and your wallet.
Whether you’re building, remodeling, or buying a new property, insist on a documented pressure test before walls go up. It’s a small step that prevents massive headaches later.
👉 Found this helpful? Share it with a Colorado homeowner or builder on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest! And if you’re planning a plumbing project, consult a licensed pro today—your future self will thank you.
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