The sump pump wouldn’t quit, the skies were clear, and the water meter didn’t budge—so where was all that water coming from? We walk you through a real inspection that turned into a detective story about a hidden supply line leak, the clues we followed, and the tech that made the difference.
First, we break down the telltale signs: a constant trickle feeding the pit, a quiet meter inside, and a low roar traveling along the city service line. From there, we explain how perimeter drains can catch leaking groundwater and route it right to the sump, making a basement look safe while a buried problem grows outside. You’ll hear how a sonic listening device maps the underground flow, how we traced the loudest point back toward the foundation, and why that match matters for targeting a dig spot.
We also get practical about responsibility and costs. Is the break on the city’s side or yours? What if the curb stop is buried and hard to find? We unpack how municipalities handle line ownership, what homeowners’ insurance might cover with the right rider, and how winter can turn saturated soil into pressure against the foundation. Then we zoom out to the bigger picture: standard home inspections have limits by law, so add-ons like sewer scopes, radon testing, termite checks, and supply line leak surveys become your best defense—especially before you sign.
If you’re buying in a competitive market or maintaining a home you love, consider these tests your unfair advantage. Subscribe for more field stories, share this episode with a friend who’s house hunting, and leave a review to tell us which extra inspection you’ll never skip again.

Adventures in Home Buying, the ultimate podcast for anyone navigating the exciting, sometimes daunting world of purchasing a home! Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or dreaming of your forever home, our engaging stories and expert insights will guide you through every step of the homebuying journey. From decoding mortgages and mastering bidding wars to uncovering hidden costs and spotting sustainable home features, we deliver practical tips and real-world advice to empower you with confidence.

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