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Point-of-sale requirement
City of Pittsburgh dye test
Since 2006, homes sold in the City of Pittsburgh need a dye test, and the seller needs a compliance certificate from the Pittsburgh Water & Sewer Authority (PWSA) before the sale can close.
What City of Pittsburgh requires
Last checked November 2026- Required for
- Selling a home in the City of Pittsburgh
- What's checked
- Whether downspouts or other stormwater connections run into the sanitary sewer
- To close
- A compliance certificate from PWSA
- If it fails
- Correct the connections and pass another dye test before selling
- Costs
- Paid by the property owner. PWSA and the City don't cover repairs.
- PWSA
- 412-255-0801 or 412-255-0804
How the test works
- The plumber places a water-soluble dye tablet in each drain or downspout and flushes it with water.
- They watch for dyed water in the sanitary sewer. Dye there means the drain is improperly connected.
- Many City homes are 50 to 100 years old, so plan time for possible repairs.
If the test fails
You'll need to correct the improper connection and pass another dye test before PWSA issues the certificate. Get a repair quote right away so your closing stays on schedule.
Summarized from the municipality's published rules. Rules change, so confirm with your town before closing.