The Urgent Need for Enhanced Sewage System Inspections

Water is our most vital natural resource, yet the safety of our drinking water is increasingly at risk. One significant but often overlooked threat comes from inadequate sewage systems. Faulty and leaking pipes can release untreated wastewater into our shared groundwater and drinking water supply, jeopardizing both public health and local ecosystems.

Currently, there are no legal requirements for regular inspections of sewage systems in residential properties. This lack of oversight is concerning, especially considering that, on average, there are approximately 200 water damage incidents daily in Sweden, costing around five billion kronor annually. The leading cause of these damages is leaks in the plumbing for water, heating, and sewage systems.

Beyond the economic implications, the environmental impact is alarming. Each water damage incident results in an average release of 300 kilograms of carbon dioxide, contributing to over 20,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year--equivalent to the emissions produced by 5,000 gasoline-powered vehicles.

Inadequate sewage systems pose a direct threat to water quality. Cracks, rust, and aging pipes can allow untreated wastewater to seep into groundwater, subsequently affecting human health as well as wildlife and natural habitats.

Despite these serious risks, there is still no legal mandate for regular inspections of sewage systems. This is particularly noteworthy given that other crucial systems in buildings, such as ventilation and fire safety, are subject to mandatory checks. When obligatory ventilation inspections were introduced in 1991, the aim was to ensure a healthy indoor environment. We now face a similar challenge with sewage systems, yet without corresponding oversight, severe issues may remain undetected.

The solution is already in place. The Swedish Association of TV Inspection Companies (STVF) trains and certifies sewage inspectors to conduct thorough evaluations of sewage systems. Existing frameworks govern how inspectors should assess properties' sewage systems, identify discrepancies, and generate reports that inform necessary actions. Despite this expertise, very few property owners voluntarily pursue these inspections, largely due to the absence of legal incentives for preventative maintenance.

To protect our drinking water, it is critical to implement mandatory sewage inspections. Regular assessments of sewage systems would not only mitigate the risk of costly water damage and carbon emissions but also ensure the integrity of our groundwater and drinking water supplies. Including sewage inspections in property transactions would also help new homeowners avoid unexpected and expensive problems.

It is time to prioritize the safety and quality of our water resources.