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Irrigation and sprinkler installation checklist

Final inspection for irrigation zones, valves, piping, backflow protection, heads, drip lines, coverage, controller programming, leaks, drainage, documentation, and owner training.

4 items to check

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Water source, shutoff, backflow protection, and permits are complete

Critical item

The irrigation connection and cross-connection protection should comply with water-provider and adopted plumbing requirements, remain accessible, and be tested where required.

Zones, valves, piping, and fittings operate without leakage or damage

Critical item

Pipe, fittings, valves, boxes, supports, burial, sleeves, and wiring should follow the system design and product instructions and remain protected and serviceable.

Heads and drip emitters cover intended planting without waste or runoff

Head type, nozzle, spacing, pressure regulation, drip layout, and scheduling should suit the landscape plan and avoid spraying buildings, pavement, vehicles, or neighboring property.

Controller, sensors, labels, as-built plan, and owner training are complete

Controls and sensors should be correctly wired, programmed, labeled, and demonstrated, with seasonal, drought, freeze, and maintenance information provided to the owner.

Use this checklist after a residential irrigation system is installed and before final acceptance. Water-service, backflow, electrical, cross-connection, drought, and watering restrictions vary by jurisdiction.

Reference standards

  • Approved plans, written scope, adopted state and local codes, permit conditions, authority having jurisdiction requirements, and manufacturer installation instructions
  • Approved irrigation, planting, water-service, and landscape plans
  • Backflow device, valve, pipe, fitting, head, drip, controller, sensor, and pump instructions
  • Tools

  • Irrigation plan and zone schedule
  • Camera, flags, catch cups or manufacturer-approved test tools, and controller access
  • Backflow, permit, test, warranty, and as-built records