Most homeowners spend time and money improving the parts of their houses that everyone can see, such as adding a nice deck or remodeling a kitchen. It’s common knowledge that these improvements definitely increase property value. However, there’s one thing that can influence how much a property is worth, and it’s rarely something that many homeowners ever consider, which is the condition of a sewer line. This underground pipe is integral to maintaining a sanitary environment because it removes waste. Its overall health plays a major role in a property’s sale potential and price in more ways than many realize. Let’s examine how the condition of your sewer line can impact the value of your home for better or worse.
The Downside: A Failing Sewer Line Is a Major Liability
If your sewer line is old, damaged by tree roots, or constantly clogged, it becomes a huge hindrance when you decide to sell your home. During the buying process, a buyer will often pay a professional to perform a sewer line inspection, which involves sending a camera through the pipe to check for issues. If that video inspection reveals significant problems, such as cracks, corrosion, or a collapsed section, the buyer will realize they’re facing a massive expense that could cost tens of thousands of dollars to fix. Since this type of serious problem represents a huge financial risk, the buyer will almost certainly demand a large price reduction. The worst-case scenario is that they may walk away from the deal entirely.
The Upside: New Pipes Make the Home a Lot More Appealing to Buyers
On the flip side, investing in a new sewer line can actually improve your home’s market value and make it much more appealing to buyers who want houses with zero hidden problems. Imagine a buyer looking at two similar houses, where one has an old clay pipe and the other has a brand-new line with a warranty that has several years left. It’s a given that they’ll almost always choose to purchase the house without the looming repair cost.
What the Bank Has to Say Concerning the Matter
Aside from a buyer’s personal preference, the condition of the sewer line can directly affect the bank’s willingness to give a loan on the property. When a home is appraised for a mortgage, the bank wants assurance that the property is structurally and functionally sound. If a required inspection reveals a severely damaged sewer line that’s causing backups or pooling water, you have a serious problem. The bank may label the property as an unacceptable risk until you make the repair and improve the condition of the sewer line.
While cosmetic updates are nice, fixing major foundational infrastructure problems, such as your sewer line, removes buyer worry and ensures your property is viewed as a sound purchase. Call Star Plumbing & Mechanical today to see if you need sewer line repair for your Owensboro, KY home.