REAC - Building Systems - Domestic Water


Domestic Water

Portion of the building system that provides potable water conditioning, heating, and distribution, taking its source from outside the building and terminating in domestic plumbing fixtures. The system typically consists of water conditioners (filters and softeners), water heaters, transfer and circulating pumps, strainers, connecting piping, fittings, valves and supports.

 

Note: This does not include portion of water supply that connects to the heating and cooling system. Also, the delivery points of the system such as sinks and faucets in units or common areas.

 

This inspectable item can have the following deficiencies:

  • General
  • Rust/Corrosion on Heater Chimney
  • Leaking Central Water Supply
  • Misaligned/Damaged Ventilation System
  • Missing Pressure Relief Valve
  • Water Supply Inoperable

General Rust/Corrosion on Heater Chimney

Deficiency: The water heater chimney shows evidence of flaking, discoloration, pitting,  or crevices.

 

Level of Deficiency:

Level 1: N/A

Level 2: N/A

Level 3: The water heater chimney shows evidence of flaking, discoloration, pitting, or crevices that may create holes that could allow toxic gases to leak from the chimney.

 

Leaking Central Water Supply

Deficiency: You see water leaking from any water system component, including valve flanges, stems, bodies, hose bibs, or any domestic water tank or its pipe or pipe connections.

 

Note:

  1. This includes both hot and cold water systems, but does not include fixtures.
    1. Address fixtures in dwelling units or common areas.
  2. Some pumps and valves are designed to leak as a normal function, particularly in fire pumps, water pressure pumps, and large circulating pumps, and should be considered accordingly.

 

Level of Deficiency:

Level 1: N/A

Level 2: N/A

Level 3: You see that water is leaking.

 

Comment:

Level 3: If leaking water is a health and safety concern (i.e., is leaking on or near electrical equipment), you must record it manually under "Electrical Hazards (Health and Safety)."

 

Misaligned Chimney/Ventilation System

Deficiency: The ventilation system on a gas-fired or oil-fired water heater is misaligned.

Level of Deficiency:

Level 1: N/A

Level 2: N/A

Level 3: You see any misalignment that may cause improper or dangerous venting of exhaust gases.

 

Missing Pressure Relief Valve

Deficiency: The pressure relief valve on the central hot water heating system is missing or does not extend to the floor.

 

Level of Deficiency:

Level 1: N/A

Level 2: N/A

Level 3: There is no pressure relief valve.

-OR The pressure relief valve does not extend to the floor.

 

Water Supply Inoperable

Deficiency: Water is not available.

 

Level of Deficiency:

Level 1: N/A

Level 2: N/A

Level 3: There is no running water in any area of the building.


Did you find this article useful?