Dye testing

Real estate transactions and many municipal permits in the Alle-Kiski Valley require a sewer dye test before you can move forward. John Shelton Plumbing performs compliant dye testing with quick scheduling, clear communication, and proper documentation so closings and projects stay on track. Since 1983, our licensed, family-owned team has handled testing for single-family homes, multi-units, and light commercial properties—coordinating with local municipalities and providing straightforward next steps if sewer repairs are needed.

What a Sewer Dye Test Confirms

Municipal dye tests verify that storm water or groundwater is not entering the sanitary sewer system and that drainage connections are configured correctly. Using a non-toxic, highly visible dye, we confirm whether downspouts, area drains, or sump discharges are improperly tied into sanitary piping—or if a hidden defect is allowing infiltration into your sewer line.

When You’ll Need Dye Testing

• Home sales/closings: Many Alle-Kiski Valley municipalities require a passed dye test before property transfer.
• Permits and remodels: Additions, drainage changes, or site work may trigger municipal dye testing requirements.
• Troubleshooting: Recurring backups or yard seepage can warrant dye testing to locate cross-connections before you invest in major sewer repairs.

Our Step-by-Step Dye Testing Process

1) Municipal Requirement Check

We verify your municipality’s specific standards so your test is fully compliant—where observations must occur, what fixtures are included, and how documentation should be presented to inspectors, agents, or buyers.

2) Site Review & Setup

Our team identifies test points (downspouts, yard drains, sump discharges, and fixtures) along with safe observation areas. We also confirm access to cleanouts or visible outfalls where dye could appear if there’s a misconnection to the sanitary sewer.

3) Non-Toxic Dye Introduction

We introduce dye with controlled water flow and watch for any signs it is entering the sanitary system where it shouldn’t. If dye appears at manholes, cleanouts, or other points tied to the sanitary line, we’ve confirmed a cross-connection or infiltration path that needs correction.

4) Documentation & Guidance

You receive concise pass/fail paperwork suitable for agents, buyers, sellers, and municipal inspectors. If your property does not pass the first time, we outline a prioritized plan to correct issues quickly and prepare you for re-testing.

If Your Property Fails a Dye Test

Don’t panic—failures are fixable and very common in older neighborhoods. We identify the exact cause and propose solutions based on scope and budget. Common repairs include disconnecting downspouts from sanitary lines, replacing deteriorated sections, or correcting improper tie-ins. For precise diagnostics, we may recommend:

• Electronic Line Locating to map and mark buried lines
• Sewer Camera Inspection to confirm cracks, offsets, or intrusions
• Trenchless Pipe Lining to restore damaged laterals without digging
• Hydro Jetting to clear grease, scale, and roots before a re-test
• Excavation for sections not suitable for trenchless methods

Why Sellers, Buyers & Agents Choose Shelton

• Local compliance experts: We work with A-K Valley municipalities every day and understand their dye testing rules.
• Fast scheduling: We know closings and permits have hard deadlines and keep your transaction moving.
• Clear, actionable reports: Pass/fail documentation with practical next steps if repairs are needed.
• One-call solution: From dye test to sewer repair to re-test, we handle everything in-house.
• Trusted plumbing partner: Decades of experience with sewer services, drain cleaning, and trenchless solutions.

Related Services

• Sewer Services – cleaning, repairs, and replacements
• Drain Cleaning – clear lines ahead of inspection
• Sewer Camera Inspection – verify internal pipe condition