The Pre-Renovation Plumbing Checklist for Victoria Homeowners (2026)
You’ve been scrolling Pinterest for months, and you’re ready to pull the trigger on your dream renovation. But before the demolition begins, there are a few "un-glamorous" things you need to check to ensure your project doesn't go off the rails. Based on the 2024 BC Building Code and our experience in Victoria’s unique neighborhoods, we’ve put together the essential checklist every homeowner needs.
Save time! [Click here to book with Praise Plumbing]
or call us today to discuss your options.
Step 1: The "Invisible" Inspection
-Check the Main Shut-off: Does it work? If you can’t turn off your water in an emergency, you shouldn’t start a reno.
-Test the Water Pressure: Many older Victoria homes have failing Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs). If your pressure is too high, it can damage your new luxury fixtures.
-Identify Your Pipe Material: If you find Poly-B or Galvanized Steel, you need to plan for a "re-pipe" now, rather than discovering a leak after your new tile is installed.
Step 2: The Permit & Code Review
-Confirm Your Permit Needs: In Saanich and Victoria, almost any change to fixture location requires a permit. Check your municipal portal (MyCity or MySaanich) early.
-Isometric Drawings: Some renovations require a water, drainage and venting layout? Modern code is strict about how far fixtures can be from vent stacks and water pipe sizes.
-Radon & Soil Gas: If you are renovating a basement in the CRD, ensure your plan accounts for the new 2024 soil gas control requirements.
Step 3: The Fixture & Material Audit
-Lead Times: In 2026, some high-end European fixtures still have 8-12 week lead times. Don't demo your only bathroom until your parts are on-site!
-Flow Rates: Ensure your new showerheads and toilets meet the BC Energy Step Code water-efficiency standards.
-The "Wet Wall" Verification: Can your existing 2x4 walls accommodate the new 3-inch drain lines, or do you need to re-frame a "plumbing wall"?
Step 4: The Professional Blueprint (The Map)
Before you swing a hammer, you need a set of construction drawings. In the 2024 BC Building Code, this can consist of: Existing & Proposed Floor Plans, Elevation Plans, Site Plan, Structural Plans and older homes may need Hazardous Material Report.
-Why it matters: A blueprint shows the city exactly what the layout is and what the proposed layout is going to be.
-The Praise Advantage: We don't just "wing it” when it comes to the plumbing portion. We ensure your layout is code-compliant before any concrete is cut or walls are framed. This prevents "on-the-fly" changes that can blow your budget.
-The Permit Factor: Most Greater Victoria municipalities now require a digital copy of your plumbing layout to approve your permit. A professional blueprint speeds up this approval process.
Step 5: Scheduling the Trades (The Rhythm)
Plumbing is a "two-stage" trade, and your schedule needs to reflect that to avoid paying for "wait time."
-The Rough-In: The plumbers need to come in after the framing is complete but before the insulation and drywall go up.
-The Gap: There is often a 2–4 week gap between the rough-in and the finish while the tile, flooring, and cabinets are installed.
-The Finish: We return at the very end to "trim out" the fixtures (installing the toilets, faucets, and shower trim).
-Pro-Tip: We always schedule your Plumbing Rough-In Inspection before the drywallers start. Its necessary for the inspector to see the plumbing while the studs are exposed!
Ready to make your Victoria home modern and fresh? Don't wait! [Click here to book with Praise Plumbing] or call us today to discuss your options. [250-580-4777]
