When a plumbing system shows signs of wear, what should inspectors do?

When a plumbing system shows signs of wear, the appropriate action for inspectors is to document the signs in the report. This is crucial because thorough documentation serves multiple purposes. It provides a clear record of the condition of the plumbing system at the time of inspection, which can be valuable for future assessments or negotiations.

Additionally, documenting wear helps to inform the property owner or potential buyers about necessary repairs or maintenance that may be needed, thereby promoting transparency and safety. This approach allows informed decision-making for any necessary actions that should follow, whether they involve repairs or evaluations from qualified professionals.

The other options, such as ignoring the signs, suggesting immediate replacement without assessment, or downplaying the findings, fail to uphold the standards of professionalism and safety. Each of these alternatives neglects the inspector's responsibility to provide an accurate assessment and guidance based on observed conditions.