Hydrostatic testing, also known as static testing, is a method of leak detection that involves plugging parts of a plumbing system, filling it with water at a certain pressure, and then looking for, and if need be, fixing any leaks that may be present.

There are several key points that first time home buyers, sellers, and realtors need to know about hydrostatic testing:

1. 1. 1. It is safe. Static testing uses water, which is not compressible. In case there is a leak in your plumbing, the water will just spring out with a little pressure.
      2. It is the best method of leak detection. Other methods such as camera inspections are better suited for locating clogs, rather than leaks.
      3. If you are a buyer or realtor, you need the written permission of the home seller to carry out hydrostatic testing.
      4. In the state of Texas, the Addendum for Authorizing Hydrostatic Testing specifies that the buyer will cater for the cost of static testing.
      5. When preparing to carry out a hydrostatic test on a property, the addendum above also has a section where the buyer and home seller agree on who will cater for the cost of repairing the damage that hydrostatic testing may cause. This cost is usually catered for by the seller because hydrostatic tests are safe and can only cause damage when a plumbing system is already faulty.