Philadelphia Property Intelligence

Lead service lines

Philadelphia has an estimated 60,000+ lead water service lines, predominantly in homes built before 1945. CaveatBuyer flags lead service line exposure based on construction era, PWD records, and Code 6-800 lead paint designations.

Combined sewer overflows (CSO)

Philadelphia's combined sewer system discharges raw sewage into waterways during heavy rain. Properties near CSO outfall points face environmental and flooding risk. CaveatBuyer identifies CSO basin exposure for every property.

Tax abatement expiration

Philadelphia's 10-year tax abatement program has driven new construction, but properties approaching abatement expiration face significant tax increases. CaveatBuyer identifies abatement status and estimates post-expiration tax exposure.

L&I violations

The Department of Licenses & Inspections tracks building violations. Open violations can indicate unresolved structural, safety, or habitability issues. CaveatBuyer pulls L&I violation history for every Philadelphia property.

PFAS contamination

Properties near Willow Grove Naval Air Station and other military installations may have PFAS (forever chemicals) contamination in groundwater. CaveatBuyer calculates proximity and flags exposure risk based on PA DEP data.

What should I check before buying a house in Philadelphia?

Before buying in Philadelphia, check for lead service lines (common in pre-1945 homes), L&I violation history, tax abatement status and expiration date, FEMA flood zone status, environmental contamination proximity, CSO basin exposure, radon zone status, and building era risks including asbestos and lead paint. CaveatBuyer's free Foundation Report covers all of these. The $49 Intelligence Report adds proprietary analysis.

How do I check for lead pipes in a Philadelphia property?

Philadelphia has an estimated 60,000+ lead water service lines, predominantly in homes built before 1945. CaveatBuyer identifies lead service line exposure based on construction era and available records from the Philadelphia Water Department. Enter any address at caveatbuyer.com for a free assessment.

What are common issues with row homes in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia row homes commonly face: shared party walls with structural interdependence, lead paint (Code 6-800 designation), lead service lines, combined sewer overflow exposure, aging electrical systems, and foundation settlement. The 12-year statute of repose (Pennsylvania law) limits construction defect claims, making pre-purchase due diligence critical. CaveatBuyer identifies these risks from public records.

Will my property taxes increase after buying in Philadelphia?

Possibly, especially if the property has a 10-year tax abatement that is expiring. Philadelphia's abatement program exempts improvements from property tax for 10 years. When the abatement expires, the full assessed value becomes taxable, which can mean a significant increase. CaveatBuyer's Tax Reassessment analysis identifies abatement status and estimates post-expiration tax exposure.

How much does a CaveatBuyer report cost in Philadelphia?

CaveatBuyer's Foundation Report is free for any Philadelphia-area address. The full Intelligence Report costs $49 and adds proprietary analysis. No subscription required.