Getting ready to sell in Morgan Hill and hearing “PSL inspection” come up? You are not alone. A Private Sewer Lateral check can feel like a curveball, but a simple plan can keep your sale on track. In this guide, you will learn what PSL means, how the City process usually works, what it may cost, and the exact steps to earn your compliance certificate with minimal stress. Let’s dive in.

What a PSL inspection is

A private sewer lateral is the pipe that runs from your home to the public sewer main. A PSL inspection uses a camera to check that pipe for cracks, root intrusion, or other defects. Many cities in Santa Clara County expect sellers to show a compliance certificate at transfer, so plan for PSL early in your sale.

Why sellers should care

A PSL requirement can affect escrow timelines. If repairs are needed, you may need permits and City inspections before closing. Handling PSL proactively builds buyer confidence, reduces surprises, and helps you avoid last‑minute delays.

Seller checklist: step by step

Decide when to start

• Choose whether to get compliant before listing or right after you accept an offer.
• Getting it done early helps you price, plan, and keep momentum.

Hire the right contractor

• Work with a licensed plumbing or sewer contractor who understands Morgan Hill expectations.
• Confirm they provide a CCTV video, still images, and a signed written report in the format the City accepts.

Get a CCTV inspection

• The contractor runs a camera through the lateral from the house to the main, then documents length, materials, and defects.
• Save the raw video file and the written report. You will need these for the City and any repair bids.

Submit the report to the City

• Some cities ask for the CCTV report and an application before repairs. Others accept it with the repair permit. Confirm the current Morgan Hill process.
• If the lateral meets standards, the City issues a compliance certificate.

If defects are found

• Repair before close of escrow, which is most common.
• Negotiate a transfer of responsibility to the buyer with an escrow holdback only if the City permits it and the buyer agrees. Confirm Morgan Hill’s policy and any required forms or financial protections.

Permits and repairs

• Apply for the sewer lateral repair permit before any work.
• Your contractor completes repairs and schedules City inspections as required.

Final inspection and certificate

• The City inspects repairs and may review a post‑repair CCTV if needed. When everything meets standards, the City issues a compliance certificate.
• Provide the certificate and permit closure documents to the buyer and escrow.

Coordinate with escrow

• Deliver the certificate before closing, or follow any City‑approved escrow alternative.
• Make sure all City forms and holdbacks are completed if repairs will happen after close.

Timing you can expect

• CCTV inspection scheduling: usually 1 to 3 business days. The on‑site work takes a few hours.
• City review of a submitted report: a few days to about 2 weeks, depending on workload.
• Minor spot repairs: about 1 to 7 days including permit and inspections if schedules align.
• Major repairs or full replacement: about 2 to 6 weeks or more, especially if trenching, street work, or restoration is needed.

Tip: Start PSL as early as possible. If you wait until late in escrow, permit lead times or unexpected repairs can push your closing.

What it may cost

• CCTV inspection: about $200 to $800.
• Spot repairs: about $500 to $3,000.
• Trenchless repairs or pipe‑bursting: about $4,000 to $15,000 or more.
• Full open‑cut replacement: about $5,000 to $25,000 or more depending on length and access.

Use your CCTV report to get apples‑to‑apples bids. Ask contractors if they handle permits and City inspections, and how quickly they can mobilize.

Common issues and typical fixes

• Root intrusion at joints. Often cleared, then lined or repaired.
• Cracked or broken sections. Repaired by spot replacement or trenchless methods.
• Bellies or sags that hold water. May require excavation or replacement to correct slope.
• Collapsed sections or offset joints. Often need trenchless replacement or open‑cut work.
• Grease and debris buildup. Cleanout and inspection help confirm underlying pipe condition.

Paperwork to expect

• CCTV video file, still images, and a signed written CCTV report.
• City application or inspection request if required.
• Sewer lateral repair permit if you need repairs.
• Final inspection sign‑off and permit closure documents.
• City compliance certificate confirming the lateral meets standards.
• If transferring responsibility: City‑approved forms and escrow instructions, when allowed.

Pitfalls to avoid

• Waiting until the last minute. Permits and repairs can take longer than expected.
• Accepting a verbal report. Always get the raw video, images, and a signed report.
• Using unlicensed contractors. The City can reject unpermitted work.
• Skipping escrow coordination. If using a holdback or transfer, follow City rules and get approvals in writing.

Special cases to confirm

• New construction or a recently inspected lateral may qualify for an exemption if the City has a record.
• Properties on septic or parcels not connected to public sewer follow different rules.
• Vacant or agricultural parcels can face different requirements. Always confirm with the City before you assume.

Your next steps

• Call the City of Morgan Hill Public Works or Building Division to confirm current PSL requirements, fees, forms, and any escrow alternatives.
• Book a licensed contractor for a CCTV inspection and request the raw video and a formal report.
• If repairs are likely, get bids now and confirm who will manage permits and City inspections.
• Loop in your escrow officer and buyer early if a transfer or holdback might be used.

Selling in Morgan Hill does not have to be stressful. With an early PSL plan, a clear checklist, and the right team, you can protect your timeline and your net proceeds. If you want a hands‑on partner to coordinate contractors, keep escrow moving, and negotiate every step, reach out to Naomi Townsend Real Estate. Hablamos español.

FAQs

What is a PSL in Morgan Hill?

• A private sewer lateral is the pipe connecting a home’s plumbing to the public sewer main. The City typically expects a PSL inspection and compliance at sale to reduce overflows and infiltration.

When should a seller start PSL steps?

• Start before listing when possible, or immediately after accepting an offer. Early action helps you avoid closing delays.

How long does the PSL process take?

• A camera inspection can happen within a few days, minor repairs about a week, and major work 2 to 6 weeks or more, depending on permits and schedules.

How much do PSL repairs cost?

• Costs vary with pipe length and access. Expect about $200 to $800 for CCTV, $500 to $3,000 for small repairs, and several thousand for trenchless or full replacement.

Can the buyer handle PSL repairs after closing?

• Sometimes, if the City allows a transfer of responsibility or an escrow holdback and the buyer agrees. Confirm Morgan Hill’s current policy and required forms.

Who issues the compliance certificate?

• The City of Morgan Hill issues the compliance certificate after reviewing reports and completing inspections. Escrow relies on this document to close.