I swear I’m not obsessed with sewer lines!

In the past year, I’ve written at least two articles recommending having your sewer line cleaned and inspected regularly, so you may think I’m obsessed with it. I assure you I’m NOT, but I AM obsessed with keeping you informed.

Many of us live in OLD homes, with sewer lines made of old clay tiles that have never been repaired or replaced.?These clay tiles can crack, break or even fall apart. When the tiles crack, tree roots and other vegetation grow into the cracks, causing further damage. If roots are growing in your line, it needs to be cleaned at least once a year.

Sewer line issues come up quite often now, usually during the selling process, which is stressful for all involved. I recently had three transactions where the sewer line needed to be replaced, and another where my clients withdrew their offer when they discovered the line was broken. The cost of repair for these was between $10K and $15K.

If your “sewer cleaning person” sees an urgent problem, or a situation that is steadily getting worse, you need to make some plans!?If the line needs to be repaired or replaced, you can now get it taken care of on your own terms and in your own timeframe?before?it becomes an emergency. I recommend getting three estimates/opinions because there may be more than one repair option, and costs will vary.

As painful as the process of a sewer line repair is, it’s much more painful and stressful if you’re dealing with it in the middle of a real estate transaction.?If the repair can’t be done before closing, which will most likely be the case because these companies are busy, you may end up escrowing money at closing so the repairs can be made later.?

Good news! You can purchase sewer line insurance or a warranty. Not every insurance company will cover a sewer line repair, but you can call around and find out who does. It will probably be an add-on coverage. You’ll want to know exactly what is covered.?Some?basic homeowner’s insurance policies will cover sewer lines, but only for an event, not just normal old age.?

Service Line Warranty of America is one company that offers a warranty to cover sewer and water line failures. Both Edina and Richfield have informed their residents about this optional coverage. Residents pay monthly for the service. I am not encouraging you to use any particular service, but this is an option.?Do your own research.Here is the link for info on the?Edina program.?

That’s it! Not obsessed, just looking out for you!?

Contact me with any questions or feedback!