Homebuyers and sellers in Warminster Township should be aware of a new requirement: as of March 10, the Warminster Municipal Authority (WMA) has mandated sewer lateral inspections at the point of sale. This ordinance aims to prevent excess water from entering the township’s wastewater treatment plant, which can contribute to system overflows.

Why the New Requirement?

The ordinance was introduced to combat issues related to inflow and infiltration (I&I)—two major causes of sewer system overflows.

  • Inflow refers to stormwater entering sewer lines through manholes and cleanouts.

  • Infiltration occurs when groundwater seeps into aging or defective sewer pipes and manholes.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), private properties contribute to at least 50% of I&I issues, making homeowner compliance a crucial factor in maintaining the integrity of the sewer system.

How This Affects Home Sellers and Buyers

This new sewer lateral inspection is required in addition to the use and occupancy certificate mandated by Warminster Township. Sellers must ensure their sewer laterals are inspected before closing a sale.

However, there is some concern regarding compliance with Pennsylvania’s Municipal Code and Ordinance Compliance Act. The law allows home sellers 12 months to complete necessary repairs, whereas Warminster’s requirement mandates repairs before the sale can be finalized. The Suburban Realtors Alliance has reached out to the township and the WMA to discuss this potential conflict.

What Should Homeowners Do?

If you're planning to sell a home in Warminster Township, here’s what you need to do:

  1. Schedule a sewer lateral inspection with a certified professional.

  2. Address any necessary repairs before closing (per WMA regulations).

  3. Obtain your use and occupancy certificate from Warminster Township.

  4. Stay informed about potential changes to this requirement by following updates from the Suburban Realtors Alliance and local authorities.

This new regulation underscores the importance of home maintenance and infrastructure improvements in Warminster. Whether you're a homeowner, buyer, or real estate professional, understanding these local requirements will help ensure a smooth transaction when buying or selling property.

For more information, visit the Warminster Municipal Authority website or consult with a local real estate expert.

Source: Warminster Municipal Authority