Uncapped pipes and the blockage nobody expects
Two minutes of work, deferred until it becomes a plumber's callout.
In short: An open waste point collects the rest of the build. The problem only appears when something will not drain.
What we recorded
Uncapped waste and sewer pipes on a Craigieburn build, along with stormwater pipework noted as broken or blocked below ground.
Why it matters
Every trade after the plumber generates offcuts, dust and debris, and an open pipe collects all of it.
When it surfaces
Months later, usually after handover, as a slow drain or a blockage with no obvious cause.
Who is responsible
The builder, as coordination between trades. At the time it is a capping job worth almost nothing.
What to check
Ask specifically whether points were capped after rough in, and have the stage inspected rather than taking it on trust.
Written by the Owner Inspections team from inspections carried out in Craigieburn. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.
