Sewer inspection is a topic that may not be very clear to many homeowners. Unfortunately, people often don't consider the condition of their sewer lines until it's too late. Failing to maintain or inspect a sewer line can result in problems slowly developing over the long term, leading to costly repairs that seemingly appear out of nowhere, despite years of unheeded warning signs. 

When buying a new home, these problems can be even more challenging to spot with only a cursory inspection. Missing the warning signs of serious issues can cost you substantial money if failures or clogs appear after you close your deal. If you're relying on home inspections that don't include detailed sewer inspections, here are four reasons to add this critical service to your checklist.

1. More Contingency Options

Contingencies are often a crucial part of the home-buying process, and they can protect both you and the seller against issues with the sale. Inspection contingencies can help you avoid purchasing a home with major defects or, if the contingency's terms allow, force the seller to repair them. Since sewer line issues can be costly, a sewer inspection contingency can help close a deal quickly while minimizing risk.

2. Easier Planning and Budgeting

Not all issues with sewer lines are dealbreakers or major problems that sellers will agree to fix. In some cases, a home's sewer line may have noticeable problems that will require repair in the future without currently being an urgent issue. If you're getting a good deal or love the house, you may still want to proceed with your purchase even knowing these issues.

However, having more information on hand is always worthwhile. If you know you'll need to address major sewer defects in the coming years, you can use this information to adjust your future planning and budgeting.

3. A Better Negotiating Position

Most states contain disclosure laws for real estate, but the details of these laws can vary from place to place. Sellers may also not be responsible for issues where it's difficult or impossible to prove that the seller had foreknowledge of the problem. Since many sewer issues produce few warning signs early on, sellers may be unaware of the problems with their homes.

By performing a sewer inspection before you purchase, you'll have knowledge that your seller did not, potentially putting you in a better negotiating position. Even if the seller does not agree to fix these issues, you can potentially use the information to negotiate a better purchasing price.

4. More Peace of Mind

Ultimately, the best reason to schedule a sewer inspection before purchasing your new home is more peace of mind. Knowing that your new home's sewer system is in relatively good shape means you won't need to panic whenever a drain clogs or runs slowly. You can enjoy your new home confident that there aren't any expensive sewer repair bills waiting just around the corner.

Contact a local plumbing company, such as True Quality Plumbing, to learn more.

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