PSL Pressure Test Guide: EBMUD Compliance for East Bay Property Owners
- Pipe Spy Specialist
- Sep 30, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 4
If you own property in Oakland or anywhere in the East Bay Area, you may be required to pass a Private Sewer Lateral (PSL) pressure test to comply with the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) Sewer Lateral Compliance Program.
Whether you’re selling a home, remodeling, building new, or applying for a water meter upgrade, this guide explains what PSL testing involves, when it's required, and why Pipe Spy is your trusted partner for fast, professional compliance.
What Is a PSL Pressure Test?
A PSL pressure test is an inspection that verifies your private sewer line is watertight and structurally sound, as required by EBMUD. Your private sewer lateral (PSL) is the underground pipe connecting your building’s plumbing system to the public sewer main.
Over time, PSLs can develop serious defects that allow groundwater infiltration or stormwater inflow—which can overwhelm public sewer systems and violate EPA regulations.
Common PSL Issues That Cause Test Failure:
Cracks or fractures in pipe walls
Joint separations or misalignments
Root intrusion
Corrosion-related holes or blockages
EBMUD PSL Compliance Requirements
EBMUD requires all private sewer laterals to meet strict performance standards to reduce inflow and infiltration (I&I). A compliant PSL must be:
Structurally intact, with no cracks, fractures, or joint issues
Free of root intrusion or internal obstructions
Fully watertight to prevent external water from entering the system
In full compliance with EPA mandates and local building codes
Types of PSL Pressure Tests in Oakland & East Bay
1. Low-Pressure Air Test (Most Common Method)
This is the primary method used in Oakland and much of the East Bay due to its efficiency and water conservation benefits—particularly important during drought conditions.
Testing Process:
Pressurized air is introduced into the sealed lateral
System is stabilized at initial pressure
Test begins at 2.5–3.0 PSI
Pass Criteria: Pressure must not drop more than 1.0 PSI over 5 minutes
Note: Low-pressure air tests are not allowed on rigid plastic pipe systems, per the California Plumbing Code.
2. Hydrostatic Water Test
Used primarily in new construction or major renovations, this method fills the lateral with water to test for pressure retention.
Testing Process:
Water is added via standpipe at the cleanout
Water head must rise 5 feet above the highest point in the lateral
Pass Criteria: No visible water loss at the top of the standpipe during the test
When Is PSL Pressure Testing Required in Oakland and East Bay?
EBMUD mandates PSL pressure testing and a Sewer Lateral Certificate of Compliance when any of the following conditions are met:
Mandatory PSL Testing Triggers:
Buying or selling a property
Renovation or construction projects over $100,000
Changing the size of a water meter
New construction permits
Major remodels impacting the building’s plumbing
Voluntary PSL Compliance (Highly Recommended)
Even if testing isn't currently required, voluntary PSL compliance can save you from unexpected costs and delays later.
Benefits of Voluntary Testing:
Prevents future compliance triggers from disrupting sales or upgrades
Demonstrates environmental responsibility
Preserves property value with documented sewer system integrity
Helps avoid fines or forced repairs during future inspections
PSL Compliance Certificate Validity
Once your sewer lateral passes inspection, you will receive a Sewer Lateral Certificate of Compliance from EBMUD. Validity periods vary:
7 Years – If no repairs or replacements were needed
20 Years – If the lateral was fully replaced or rehabilitated
Who Can Perform a PSL Pressure Test in Oakland?
Only licensed contractors are authorized to perform PSL pressure testing. EBMUD does not offer testing services directly.
Pipe Spy is fully licensed, insured, and qualified to conduct official PSL tests throughout Oakland and the East Bay.
Why Choose Pipe Spy?
With over 20 years of experience in Oakland and surrounding East Bay communities, Pipe Spy offers complete, start-to-finish PSL compliance services.
Our Advantages:
Licensed and certified PSL testing professionals
Fast turnaround for compliance certificates
Support for residential, commercial, and new construction
Optional repairs or trenchless replacement if needed
Full documentation provided for EBMUD approval
We understand the local codes, testing requirements, and the EBMUD submission process—so you don’t have to.
Schedule Your Oakland PSL Pressure Test Today
Avoid last-minute delays during real estate transactions, construction projects, or building upgrades. Whether your test is required or voluntary, Pipe Spy provides fast, expert PSL pressure testing to keep your project on track.
Call us to schedule your PSL test immediately.
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