Guide to Sewer Lateral Inspections

What Realtors and Sellers Should Know

A sewer lateral inspection is often required when selling a home. The inspection helps identify conditions that may allow groundwater infiltration, restrict sewer flow, or violate local municipal requirements.

Because requirements vary by municipality, understanding the local rules is important for both realtors and sellers.

Why Is the Sewer Inspected?

A major concern is groundwater entering the sanitary sewer system through cracks, defective joints, broken pipe, or other openings. Excess groundwater can increase flows through the public sewer system and wastewater treatment facilities.

An inspection may also identify:

Cracked or broken pipe
Tree root infiltration
Open or defective joints
Low spots or “bellies”
Debris or obstructions
Excessive cast iron scale
Other conditions requiring correction under local regulations

Who Is Responsible for the Sewer?

It depends on the municipality.

For example, in Lower Macungie Township, Emmaus, and Coopersburg, the homeowner’s responsibility generally ends at the curb line.

In other municipalities, homeowner responsibility may extend under the street to the connection with the public sewer main.

This distinction can make a significant difference if a defect is discovered.

Does a Sewer Backup Have to Occur? No.

A sewer can have cracks, roots, defective joints, or other problems without ever backing up. A lightly used sewer may continue to function despite a partial restriction or other defect.

The purpose of the inspection is to determine the condition of the sewer lateral, not simply whether the homeowner has experienced a problem.

Some Municipalities Require Cleaning First

Municipalities such as South Whitehall Township and Salisbury Township may require the sewer to be cleaned before the camera inspection.

Cleaning removes roots, debris, and scale so the inspector can properly evaluate the pipe.

Every Municipality Is Different

Requirements can vary regarding:

Who is responsible for the lateral
Whether cleaning is required
What defects must be repaired
Inspection and report fees
How reports are submitted
Re-inspection requirements

Never assume the requirements are the same from one municipality to another.

Realtor Pre-Listing Checklist

Is a sewer lateral inspection required?
Does the sewer need to be cleaned first?
Where does the homeowner’s responsibility end?
Does responsibility extend under the street?
What conditions require repair?
Are there municipal fees or re-inspection requirements?

Our Recommendation

Don’t wait until the last minute.

If an inspection is required, completing it early can help identify potential problems, allow time for repairs, and prevent unnecessary delays during the sale.