Why should I get a Sewer Line Inspection before I buy a home?
It's often assumed that a sewer line inspection is required by a mortgage or insurance company before completing the purchase of a new home. Unfortunately, a sewer line inspection is not included with a typical home inspection. As part of the potential purchase of a home, the buyer assumes the job of the home inspector is to give an outline of the conditions of the home. Since this person is not necessarily a plumbing expert, they do not have the equipment or experience to investigate the condition of your sewer line.
Sewer issues can be costly to repair. This is why we recommend buyers schedule a separate sewer line camera inspection by a professional sewer company during the home inspection period. This way you have a full understanding of the state of your sewer system before committing to the purchase.
Potential Sewer Issues include:
Tree Roots
Homes that have large trees can have issues with tree roots growing in the sewer line. These roots are attracted to the water in the pipes, eventually growing inside the line causing a barrier clogging the line. If the tree roots grow outside the pipe, the pressure from the massive roots can cause the pipe to break.
Old Pipes
Know the type of pipe used for your sewer line before your purchase. Cast iron pipes deteriorate. Clay pipes often have gaps which are an open invitation for tree roots. Orangeburg pipes can collapse. Improper Installation Even if the home was built in the last 20 years, you cannot assume your sewer line is in good condition. There is the potential for issues to occur due to the faulty installation of materials.
Buyers should be on the lookout for:
Slow draining or backups. Turn on water full blast and flush the toilets at the same time. If water drains slowly or backs up into the shower, there may be an issue.
Soft, wet spots in the yard, especially if it hasn’t rained. This could be a sign of a broken pipe.
Note: The only way to be certain of the condition of the sewer line, is to get a camera inspection.
What are my options if there is sewer line damage on a house I want to buy?
You’ll want to get an estimate for the cost of repairs and negotiate. The cost of sewer repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. These results may help the buyer negotiate a lower price on the home based on your estimated cost of repair. You, as the buyer, can insist the owner repair the issues before the sale.