Sewer Surprise: When a Septic or Lateral Requirement Stops a Closing

When a buyer shows up for closing and discovers the property either sits on a failing septic system or is suddenly subject to a municipal sewer-lateral replacement requirement, the deal can stall—and quick. In this episode Matthew Halliday opens with a real escrow story where a lender paused funding after a municipal letter arrived demanding a costly lateral repair. He breaks down three pragmatic lessons for buyers, sellers, and agents: how to spot septic and lateral red flags early, practical negotiation and escrow-holdback strategies, and financing and insurance workarounds that keep closings on track. Listeners get concrete checklists for inspections, sample contract language to request, and a closing-day playbook to present to lenders and title. The episode ends with a concise recap and one immediate action any listener can take before their next purchase or sale.