Who Blows Out the Sprinkler System — Buyer or Seller?

Forecasted Low Temp in Twin Cities Tonight: 24 Degrees

At least from my perspective as a Realtor, less important than who takes responsibility for blowing out (winterizing) the sprinkler system in the Fall, is that someone does it.

If not, the system can rupture due to freezing, causing both extensive flooding and expensive pipe repair.

Common Sense > Contract

Although there’s no formal rule, and I’ve never seen the issue addressed in a Purchase Agreement, the timing of closing usually governs.

Namely, if it’s early in the Fall, especially if the Seller gardens, it’s reasonable to leave the system on so the Seller can continue to use it.

However, if the closing is later in the Fall,** especially after overnight temps have regularly fallen below freezing, the Seller should tackle it before closing.

Fortunately, a quick email or phone call between the Realtors — including contact info for the current irrigation contractor, if scenario #1 applies — usually resolves it.

See, “Basement Flood Mystery . . . Solved!“; and “Winter Prep List — Home Seller Edition.”

**By “Late Fall,” at least in Minnesota, I mean early November. . .



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