Updated about 8 years ago on . Most recent reply
Required to fix S-traps?
Hi BP'ers! Just purchased a home as a quick cosmetic turn. Some of the fixtures use an S-trap style drain because venting does not exist (its an older home). Am I required to install venting or can I use the S-traps?
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@Joe Schaak it really depends on the inspector. Someone will likely flag it as a problem, likely the buyer's inspector, and the question is whether you will have to fix it. If the plumbing looks new, they will assume you replaced it and didn't pull permits so that is also something to consider... I believe you have to be living in the house to pull a plumbing permit assuming you are not a licensed plumber. Because it is a replacement and not a repair a permit would be required.
A work around that I have used and haven't been questioned on is to run a vent pipe up to the counter and put a vent cap on it. Essentailly you would have your pipe coming out of the floor, connect to a T, the side of the T would connect to your trap/sink, the top of the T would go up to the counter top (or connect through your sink holes) and install a vent.
I have been burned in the past by using old plumbing without a vent and they have made me run a vent through the roof after a kitchen remodel was complete. Was easier to take the siding off to get the job done. From a plumbing perspective we didn't do more than change out the sink and re-connect to the drain.
Of course I am not a plumber, just letting you know my experience.