Ask Phyllis: a blog series of frequently asked real estate questions.
Dear Phyllis,
We had our home listed for sale, and the buyer did numerous inspections, including a sewer inspection. The company he hired was unable to complete the inspection through the entire line because of the tree roots. The buyer wanted us to hire a company to hydrojet so they could complete their inspection. This doesn’t seem like an expense that should be on us. We are at a stalemate, and I was hoping to get your opinion. Who usually pays for this?
Clogged
Dear Clogged,
If a sewer line is too clogged, filled with roots, or otherwise blocked, the blockage prevents technicians from performing a standard camera inspection. In these cases, they first use a hydrojet or rooter to clear the line and identify the issue inside.
It’s simply one more negotiation. In practice—especially in California—sellers often agree to cover the cost if that’s the only way to complete the inspection. Many see it as a gesture of good faith. Refusing to pay can raise concerns and potentially push the buyer away. Sometimes both parties share the cost; other times, the buyer or seller pays in full. In some cases, the buyer pays upfront and later requests reimbursement from the seller at closing.
Now that the inspection report exists, the seller must inform any future buyers if this escrow is canceled. While the seller doesn’t have to pay for the hydrojet, covering the cost—or offering to split it—is usually the best way to keep the transaction moving forward.
