Plumbing inspections in Florida follow the Florida Plumbing Code (FPC), which adopts the International Plumbing Code with Florida-specific amendments. This guide covers permit requirements, inspection phases, and common failure points for Florida plumbing contractors.
When Is a Plumbing Permit Required?
A plumbing permit is required for any new plumbing installation, rerouting of existing supply or DWV lines, water heater replacement in most jurisdictions, sewer lateral work, and irrigation system installation. Fixture-for-fixture replacement without pipe work is generally not permitted in most Florida jurisdictions.
Underground / Slab Rough-In Inspection
- All underground DWV piping to correct size and slope (1/4" per foot minimum for 3" and smaller)
- Clean-outs at correct intervals and accessible locations
- Trap placement for all floor drains
- Supply piping sized per FPC Table 604.1
- Pressure test on supply: 100 psi for 15 minutes minimum
- Air test on DWV: 5 psi for 15 minutes minimum
Above-Slab Rough-In Inspection
- All DWV pipe sizing and venting per FPC Chapter 9
- Wet venting, air admittance valves, and dry venting per code allowances
- Horizontal drain slope maintained through floor framing
- Water supply piping routed away from heat sources
- Pipe support spacing per FPC Table 308.5
- Pressure test completed before walls closed
Final Plumbing Inspection
- All fixtures installed and operational
- No leaks at supply connections or drain traps
- Water heater properly installed — T&P relief valve, discharge pipe, seismic strapping where required
- Gas water heater: proper flue connection and combustion air
- Accessible cleanouts where required
- Backflow prevention devices where required
- Irrigation system backflow preventer installed
Florida Plumbing Code Key Points
Water heater temperature: Florida requires water heater temperature settings that balance scalding prevention and Legionella control. Anti-scald devices are required at showers and tubs in healthcare and care facilities.
Cross-connection control: Florida has active backflow prevention requirements for irrigation systems, commercial applications, and any connection between potable and non-potable water systems.
Hurricane strapping: Water heaters in garages must be strapped to resist seismic and wind loading in certain Florida zones.
Single Trade Plumbing Inspections
Tew & Taylor provides private plumbing inspections for contractors who need to move past a rough-in or final inspection without municipal queue delays. Contact us to discuss scheduling for your project.
Work with Florida’s Most Reliable Private Provider
Tew & Taylor has been providing private inspections, plan review, and permitting support across Florida since 2008. Same-day and next-day inspections. 2-day plan review average. Licensed under F.S. §553.791.
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