Sewer Lateral Certification Program AKA Dye Tests in the State of Pennsylvania

Why are dye tests done?  To ensure functionality and efficiency of the municipal sanitary sewer systems.  To maintain capacity and keep the sewer systems flowing properly.  To prevent sewage from leaking out into the soil.  To prevent rain water, lake water, lawn irrigation water from flowing into the sewer systems.

TRUE or FALSE? Dye tests are only required on Purchases.

Dye tests are only required on Purchase transactions….. FALSE! In most areas, dye tests are required in both Purchases & Refinances

When does the test get ordered?  The title company will check with the appropriate county & borough to see if the dye test is required in that area.  If required, the title company will order the test for you.

Which areas require the test? Depends on the area!  Allegheny County has 127 townships/ boroughs total.  75% of Allegheny townships require the dye test.  Westmoreland County has 60 townships/boroughs total.  58% of Westmoreland townships require the dye test.

Application for Inspection An example of the Franklin TWP Municipal Sanitary Authority can be found here:

The Cost  Fees range from $25 to $350 depending on the borough.  The typical fee is $350 and includes initial inspection/smoke test and any re-testing needed.

How long does the test take?  Dye tests can be done very quickly depending on the borough.  If passed, a Certificate of Compliance will be issued to the title company, and the title company can provide the commitment.  If repairs must be made, a Deficiency Report will be issued.

I received a Deficiency Report - What’s Next?  If the lateral needs repaired or replaced. The local authorities will issue a “Deficiency Report”.  The property owner will need to hire a plumbing contractor to carry out the work. Some boroughs allow the property owner to do the repair work themselves!  Contractor will do the repairs/replacement – but will leave the work uncovered for inspection.

I received a Deficiency Report - What’s Next cont.  The local authority is called to schedule a re- inspection.  INSPECTIONS REQUIRE A MINIMUM NOTICE OF 24 HOURS. Authority staff will inspect.  The Authority will issue a “Certificate of Compliance” to the property owner if passed.  Contractor will need to come back and fill in the sewer trench with bedding & backfill material.  Loan is okay to move forward – title company now has a no lien letter on file. Commitment is issued.

The Ultimate Goal: Maintain a sewer system that best serves the needs of the local residents.

Violation & Penalties  It is a violation to sell or refinance your property without having a dye test done, if the township requires one.  Most townships have passed an Ordinance.  Ordinances are defined as: formal documents which carry the binding force of the Law.  Any person, firm, or corporation who is found to have violated the order shall pay a fine or penalty up to $1,000, plus court costs for the township. A criminal complaint could also be filed.  Township Authorities may be granted permission onto your property to conduct the necessary testing and possible repairs bringing the property into compliance at the sole expense of the property owner.  Township Authorities would also have the right to file a lien against the subject property for the amount of the said expenses. OUCH.

Integrity  One of Equity’s Core Values is Integrity.  The employee manual states: Equity Resources, Inc. employees will conduct business in a manner reflecting honesty, honor and integrity.  Switching title companies to avoid dye tests is not an ethical thing to do.

Any Questions?