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Buying an older San Francisco home: sewer checklist
A general home inspection typically doesn't cover the sewer lateral, yet replacing one can be one of the largest surprise repairs in an older property. A sewer scope before you remove contingencies is inexpensive by comparison.
Before you make an offer
- Ask the seller for any sewer scope video, repair invoices, or permits for past lateral work.
- Check whether the street has large trees near the property line, since roots are a common cause of lateral damage.
- Note any basement or garage floor drains and signs of past backups (staining, odors).
During escrow
- Order a sewer camera inspection from a licensed plumber. Ask for the video and a written report with footage marks.
- Have the report state the pipe material, roots, offsets, bellies, cracks, and the approximate location of any defect relative to the property line.
- If repairs are recommended, get a written quote and use it in negotiation (credit or repair).
Reading the report
Minor root intrusion may only need periodic clearing. Offsets with roots, bellies holding water, cracks, or collapse usually mean repair or replacement. See camera inspection basics and who is responsible for which section.