Inspection Training

How to Inspect the Sump Pump Discharge Pipe

While inspecting the exterior the inspector should check for the sump pump discharge pipe. The most important things to check for this is that it is properly secured and is discharging 6 feet from the home. Please read the entire procedure below.

 

NACHI SOP

International Standards of Practice for Performing a General Home Inspection

 

3.6. Plumbing

 

I. The inspector shall inspect:

H. Drainage sump pumps with accessible floats.

 

II. The inspector shall describe:

N/A

 

III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:

N/A

 

IV. The inspector is not required to:

N/A

 

Axium SOP Differences

Axium Requires: Inspector should locate the sump pump discharge pipe on the exterior of the home.

 

Tools Needed

No tools required to inspect the sump pump discharge pipe.

 

Procedure

  • When the inspector locates the sump pump discharge pipe it is important to make sure that it is connected properly and extended at least six feet away from the property.

 

Common Defects

  • Sump pump discharge pipe is damaged or not connected properly.
  • Sump pump discharge pipe is not extended at least six feet away from the property.
  • Sump pump discharge pipe is connected to interior drain lines.
Common Mistakes
  • Not looking for the discharge pipe if there is a sump pump installed at the home.
  • Not checking to make sure it is extended at least six feet from the home.

 

Report / Software

IN
  • The sump pump discharge pipe was installed [word 1], and had a proper extension that routed drainage away from the foundation. The discharge pipe appeared to be in serviceable condition.

NI
  • N/A

NP
  • N/A

RR
  • The sump pump discharge pipe was missing a proper extension and routed roof drainage to the foundation. Erosion can continue or become worse if not corrected possibly leading to water intrusion. This condition may cause problems by introducing excessive amounts of moisture to the soil near the foundation. Excessive moisture in soil supporting the foundation can affect its ability to support the weight of the structure above and may cause foundation damage from soil movement. The extent of any damage depends on soil composition, moisture content and other conditions. A qualified contractor should evaluate and install a proper extension, to properly route drainage away from the foundation, usually at least 6 feet.

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