Plumbing in a new building goes in over three visits, each tied to a point in construction. An inspector signs off each stage before the next trade covers it up, so knowing the order helps owners and contractors plan the schedule.
Underground
Before the slab gets poured, the plumber lays the drain and waste lines in trenches below it, along with any water lines that run under the floor. The lines get tested, and the City of Phoenix inspects underground plumbing before the trench is backfilled and the concrete goes in. A mistake found here costs little to fix. Found after the pour, it means cutting concrete.
Rough-in
Once the framing stands, the plumber runs the supply lines, drains and vents through the walls and ceilings and stubs them out where each fixture will go. In a commercial space that includes the overhead drain lines, the restroom groups and the connections for any equipment.
The system gets pressure-tested, and the rough inspection comes before insulation and drywall. After that the walls close and the pipe is out of reach.
Finish
With the walls done and the cabinets and counters set, the plumber installs the fixtures: toilets, sinks, faucets, water heaters and equipment hookups. Everything gets tested in use, and the final inspection follows. In Phoenix, the plumbing fixtures and the water meter should be in place by the final.
Plan around the inspections
Each inspection holds up the trades behind it, so book them early. Keep the permit and the stamped plans on site for the inspector. Talk with the framer, the electrician and the concrete crew so nobody covers pipe before it passes.
We handle underground work, water and drain rough-ins, remodels and fixture installation for owners and contractors. Call (623) 707-3869 to talk through a project.
More about our commercial and new construction work.
