What is the inspector not required to test for in plumbing systems?

The inspector is not required to test for leakage in shower pans as part of a standard home inspection. While home inspectors do evaluate visible plumbing systems and appliances, their primary role is to identify observable issues and not conduct invasive or specialized tests that may be outside the scope of a routine inspection. Specifically, testing for leakage in shower pans typically involves examining areas that might be concealed and may require dismantling or invasive measures, which is not expected of a typical home inspection.

On the other hand, assessing the structural integrity of pipes, identifying signs of corrosion, and recognizing pipe materials are within the expected obligations of a home inspection. These aspects can be observed visually and assessed based on indications of deterioration or failure without needing to conduct tests that could potentially lead to damage or extensive alterations. The home inspector's responsibility is to provide a general overview of the system's condition rather than performing detailed or specialized evaluations.