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WPC Time of Sale Inspection

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1. Why is this being done?

In 2009, an Administrative Consent Order was authorized by the Iowa Dept. of Natural Resources (IDNR). The consent order was satisfied in 2014. As part of the agreement to satisfy the consent order, the City agreed to conduct Time of Sale Inspections. The ordinance was adopted in January of 2017.

2. What is the City looking for?

Pursuant to Chapter 97, it is illegal to have sump pumps, perimeter tiles, roof drains, yard drains etc. connected to the sanitary sewer system.

3. When is the ordinance effective?

This ordinance becomes effective March 1st for all homes being listed for sale. Homes listed prior to March 1, 2017, but with a closing date after May 1, 2017, must request an inspection.

4. My friend in the country has to pay up to $400 to have their septic tank inspected when selling their house. What’s the cost for the inspection?

The cost for the initial inspection is $50.00 and if a re-inspection is needed, the cost is $25.00. The purpose of the cost is to cover the staff time and equipment required for the inspection.

5. What is the typical cost to fix a connection in violation of the ordinance?

The costs can run from $150.00 to disconnect a sump pump being discharged to the sanitary sewer and plumb it to discharge outside, to approximately $900.00 to remove the perimeter tile from the floor drain and install a sump pump. The true cost will ultimately depend on the situation and the type and number of illegal connections. A licensed plumber will be able to provide a better estimate.

6. How long does it take to do the inspection?

The average inspection should only take about 30 minutes. The City will inspect the sump pump system, interior floor drains, footing drains, yard drains, roof drains and downspouts. We will also televise the sewer line. Homeowner will be responsible to make sure the cleanout cap is removed.

7. Can the sellers’ realtor file on my behalf?

Yes

8. When must I have the inspection done?

The inspection must be scheduled within 15 days of listing the property.

9. What if I miss the 15 day deadline?

The City will work with homeowners. The City does not want to be a hindrance to the real estate process and would rather be able to provide any information in advance of a transaction nearing closure.

10. What if I am not using a realtor, must I still have the home inspected before selling?

Yes

11. What if the sewer line from the house to the sewer main is leaking?

That will be up to the homeowner/seller to decide if the line gets repaired. The City will not mandate the repair of the sewer line unless an illegal connection is found.

12. What if I don’t have a Certificate of Compliance?

You cannot transfer title of your property to another, nor accept a transfer of title from any other person/entity whose property is located within the boundaries of the City’s sewer system.

13. How long is a Certificate of Compliance valid?

The Certificate of Compliance is valid for two years.

14. Does the City offer any reimbursement or loans?

Yes, pursuant to City policy, a program is offered for homeowners. Subject to certain criteria, homeowners may be eligible for either a reimbursement or loan as long as the work is done within 90 days. For more information, please contact the City at 515-961-9416.

15. What happens if a plumber is unable to fix any illegal connections before closing?

There are provisions in the new ordinance (94.04 Suspension of Certificate of Compliance) that allow the Water Pollution Control Superintendent to temporarily suspend the requirement of a Certificate of Compliance as a prerequisite to transfer of title. The Water Pollution Control Superintendent will work with the parties to establish an acceptable deadline for completion of the required work.

16. When is a required inspection NOT required?

This ordinance does not apply to transfer of property by gift, intestacy or testamentary disposition, transfers pursuant to the federal bankruptcy act, transfer under Warren County Property Tax Foreclosures, or mortgage foreclosures.

17. I purchased a new built home, is the inspection required?

No, this inspection was done as part of the close out procedure of the issued building permit. An inspection will be required, however, if you decide to sell your new built home after you have taken ownership.