Sewer Lateral Inspection Services in Santa Barbara, Ventura and the Surrounding Areas

Sewer Lateral Inspection

So, what is a lateral sewer line exactly? A lateral sewer line is the piping that connects the sewer system underneath a home to the main wastewater sewer line of the city. Although the city is typically responsible for the main line, homeowners are responsible for maintenance and repair of the lateral line. A private sewer lateral (P.S.L.) line inspection therefore informs both buyers and sellers about the condition of the lateral pipe–something that is commonly forgotten or unknown to homeowners. If the results of the inspection suggest a repair or replacement of the lateral line is needed, buyers and sellers can establish a mutual agreement and build the contract accordingly. Note, an expected repair must be completed within 6 months of the initial inspection.

What to expect during a lateral sewer line inspection:

  1. A professional permit must be pulled for the required inspection. Any fees associated with the permit should be included in the plumber’s final bill.
  2. A camera and storage device will be used to access the piping to visualize the condition of the system. The video will then be submitted to the city, along with the paperwork, at the end of the inspection.
  3. The property will receive a Competency Certificate, or a Defect Letter depending on the results. A Competency Letter, which indicates compliance, is good for 10 years. A Defect Letter, which indicates existing issues, requires repairs be done within 6 months, before the inspection will “pass”.

Although a structure building sewer need not be inspected for the sale or transfer of real properties, only the line from the structure to the city main, we highly recommend this be done before closing of escrow. All to often we see a new homeowner that has invested in a home that was recently remodeled for the sale and while the cosmetics of the interior may be exquisite what is almost always overlooked is the “mechanical underground system” When the existing sewer is left in place and the new occupants begin using the fixtures on a regular basis the drainage system backs up resulting in damage to new flooring, walls, rugs and baseboards. The mandatory interior home inspection, which includes plumbing, does not include video inspection of the drains. They only need to drain with running water that never really accurately duplicates actual usage.

Call Hydrotek at (805) 201-8128 to get a free estimate 

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