If you’re renovating your bathroom, installing a new water heater, or building an ADU in King County, Washington, you’ll likely need a plumbing inspection. But how to schedule a King County plumbing inspection without wasting time or risking re-inspection fees? You’re not alone—many homeowners and contractors struggle with the process due to unclear steps or last-minute cancellations. This guide walks you through the exact, up-to-date method used by professionals to book inspections quickly and correctly the first time.
Why Do You Need a Plumbing Inspection in King County?
Before diving into scheduling, it’s important to understand why plumbing inspections are mandatory. King County enforces the Washington State Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) to ensure all installations are safe, efficient, and compliant with public health standards.
According to the King County Department of Permitting and Environmental Review (DPER), over 85% of plumbing-related permit applications require at least one inspection before final approval. Skipping this step can result in fines, denied occupancy permits, or even system shutdowns.
💡 Fun fact: In 2024, DPER conducted over 27,000 plumbing inspections across unincorporated King County—proof that this isn’t just bureaucracy; it’s a critical safety checkpoint.
When Is a Plumbing Inspection Required?
Not every pipe change needs an inspector—but most do. You’ll need an inspection if your project includes:
- Installing or replacing water heaters
- Adding new fixtures (sinks, toilets, showers)
- Extending or relocating drainage lines
- Building a new home or accessory dwelling unit (ADU)
- Repairing sewer laterals
Minor repairs like fixing a leaky faucet usually don’t require inspection—but when in doubt, check your permit conditions. Your permit packet lists exactly which inspections are needed and in what order.
Step-by-Step: How to Schedule a King County Plumbing Inspection
Scheduling is straightforward once you know where to go. Follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Confirm Your Permit Is Active
You must have an active plumbing permit before requesting an inspection. Log in to King County’s ePermitting portal to verify status.
Step 2: Prepare Your Job Site
Ensure the work is complete and accessible. Inspectors won’t evaluate hidden pipes behind drywall unless it’s a rough-in inspection (which must be scheduled before covering).
⚠️ Tip: If you schedule a final inspection but the water isn’t turned on or fixtures aren’t installed, the inspector will “fail” the visit—and you’ll pay a re-inspection fee ($135 as of 2026).
Step 3: Choose Your Scheduling Method
Option A: Online (Recommended – Fastest)
- Go to King County Inspection Scheduling Portal
- Log in with your ePermitting credentials
- Select your permit number
- Choose “Plumbing” from inspection types
- Pick an available date/time (typically 1–3 days out)
- Confirm and receive email confirmation
Option B: Phone (For Urgent or Complex Cases)
Call 206-296-6680 (DPER Inspection Hotline)
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Have your permit number ready
- Requests made after 3:00 PM may not be processed until the next business day
📌 Pro Tip: Online scheduling opens at 7:00 AM daily for next-day slots. Popular times (e.g., Friday mornings) fill within minutes—set a reminder!
Common Mistakes That Delay Your Inspection
Avoid these frequent errors reported by King County inspectors:
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Scheduling final inspection before rough-in is approved | Automatic rejection |
| Not having water supply connected | Failed inspection |
| Missing shut-off valves at fixtures | Correction notice required |
| Dirty or cluttered job site | Inspector may refuse entry |
According to a 2025 internal DPER report, 32% of failed plumbing inspections were due to incomplete work—not code violations. Double-check your punch list before calling!
What Happens During the Inspection?
A licensed King County plumbing inspector will:
- Verify pipe materials meet UPC standards (e.g., PEX, copper, ABS)
- Test drainage slope (minimum ¼” per foot for waste lines)
- Check venting height and termination
- Perform a water pressure test (typically 80 PSI for 15 minutes with no drop)
- Ensure backflow prevention devices are installed where required
The entire process takes 15–45 minutes, depending on project size. You’ll receive a digital report instantly via email—pass or fail.
🔍 Did you know? King County participates in the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), ensuring alignment with national best practices. Learn more about plumbing codes on Wikipedia’s plumbing page.
Can You Reschedule or Cancel?
Yes—but with limits:
- Cancel or reschedule online up to 2 hours before your appointment
- More than 2 missed inspections on the same permit may trigger a $135 administrative fee
- Emergencies? Call the hotline to explain—inspectors often accommodate weather or medical issues
How Long Does It Take to Get Approved?
- Pass: Instant digital approval; your permit moves to the next phase (or closes)
- Fail: You’ll get a detailed correction notice. Once fixed, re-inspection must be scheduled within 30 days, or your permit risks expiration
Most successful inspections lead to full permit closure within 48 hours.
FAQ Section
Q1: How far in advance can I schedule a King County plumbing inspection?
You can typically book 1–5 business days ahead. Same-day requests are rarely available unless a cancellation opens a slot.
Q2: Do I need to be present during the inspection?
Not always—but someone 18+ with site access must be there. Contractors usually attend, but homeowners can too. The inspector won’t enter locked or unattended properties.
Q3: What if my inspection fails?
You’ll receive a written notice listing corrections. Fix the issues, then reschedule a re-inspection (fee applies after the first free re-check). Most fixes take under a day.
Q4: Are weekend inspections available?
No. King County plumbing inspections occur Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM. No weekend or holiday appointments.
Q5: Can I combine plumbing with other inspections (electrical, mechanical)?
Yes! If your permit includes multiple trades, you can bundle inspections on the same day to save time—just select all needed types when scheduling.
Q6: How much does a plumbing inspection cost in King County?
The inspection fee is included in your original permit cost. However, re-inspections after a fail cost $135 (as of 2026).
Conclusion
Knowing how to schedule a King County plumbing inspection correctly saves you time, money, and stress. By using the online portal early, preparing your site thoroughly, and understanding inspector expectations, you’ll breeze through compliance like a pro.
Don’t let confusion delay your project—bookmark this guide, share it with your contractor, or post it on your fridge!
👉 Found this helpful? Share it on Facebook, Pinterest, or LinkedIn to help fellow King County homeowners stay code-compliant!
Stay safe, build smart, and keep those pipes flowing. 💧
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