Material Deterioration

No pipes last forever and certain materials deteriorate predictably, so the sewer inspector should determine and report the sewer materials accurately. Certain sewer materials like cast iron and concrete are generally found at some stage of material breakdown.

Cast iron pipes rust with time and corrode with exposure to chemicals. If a cast iron pipe is near its expected lifespan and has a rough rusty interior, the need for eventual replacement would be a concern.

Concrete pipe inevitably deteriorates as the Portland cement is eroded by sulfur in the sewer. The sand and gravel seen in the bottom of these pipes are pipe material, and the bottoms are often very rough with exposed aggregate. This tends to catch toilet paper and waste materials and may cause clogs. Eventually, circumferal cracks form as the pipe loses integrity. 

Orangeburg was never intended as a waste line and most current lines were installed decades ago. This material should be replaced whenever found, as it is probably already in poor condition and will get worse.

Clay pipe is chemically resistant, so its lifespan tends to be long. This hard material can tolerate cleaning with blades, so serviceability is high.

While sewer materials are rarely a major factor in choosing a home to buy, outdated materials may require expensive replacement. Brokers who pursue every chance to get seller concessions work in the best interests of their buying clients.