Colorado is known for its dramatic mountain views, booming real estate markets, and ever-changing weather. But beneath the surface—literally—lurks one of the most expensive risks for both buyers and sellers: an aging or damaged sewer line.

For many buyers in cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins, the excitement of finding the perfect home can quickly turn into a financial headache if a sewer issue goes undetected. That’s where a sewer scope inspection comes in—an affordable, preventive measure that can save thousands of dollars and major stress down the road.

What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?

A sewer scope inspection involves feeding a specialized waterproof camera into the home’s main sewer line to look for blockages, pipe damage, root intrusion, or structural problems. The inspector records the footage and provides a report outlining any defects or red flags.

These inspections are typically done through the sewer cleanout or a plumbing access point and take less than an hour. The footage shows exactly what’s going on inside the pipe system, giving buyers the visual evidence they need to make informed decisions during the homebuying process.

Colorado’s Unique Sewer Line Challenges

There are specific reasons why sewer line inspections are particularly important in Colorado:

• Soil Expansion and Contraction: Colorado’s expansive clay soils can swell with moisture and shrink during dry spells. This movement can shift foundations and break or misalign underground pipes.
• Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Especially in the Front Range and mountain regions, pipes are vulnerable to cracking due to temperature swings.
• Aging Infrastructure: Many homes in areas like Wash Park, Boulder, and Old Colorado City were built in the early to mid-1900s, when materials like Orangeburg (compressed tar paper) and clay were common. These materials are now well past their life expectancy.
• Tree Root Intrusion: Older neighborhoods with large, established trees are prime candidates for root damage to sewer lines.

Real-Life Local Example: Lakewood Deal Nearly Derailed

A Reddit user shared their experience while buying a home in Lakewood, Colorado. During a routine inspection, the sewer scope revealed the line was broken—and not just on their property. It extended into the neighbor’s yard, sparking a debate about who was financially responsible.

While the seller eventually agreed to replace the damaged section, the buyer was almost forced to walk away from the deal entirely. The repair quote? Nearly $10,000.

Sewer Scope Inspections Aren’t Just for Old Homes

A common misconception is that only homes over 50 years old are at risk. That’s not always the case.

In 2021, homeowners in Aurora were advised by one company to replace their entire sewer line for $17,000. Suspicious, they called in another inspector—who found no structural issues and recommended a basic cleaning for a fraction of the cost. (KRDO News)

Construction errors, leftover debris in new builds, and improper grading can lead to sewer line problems even in recently completed homes.

What Can a Sewer Scope Reveal?

A sewer scope inspection can detect a wide range of issues that might otherwise go unnoticed:

• Tree root intrusion
• Pipe corrosion
• Offset or collapsed joints
• Bellied (sagging) sections
• Blockages from grease or debris
• Cracks from soil shifting or ground settling
• Old or deteriorated pipe materials

These problems can cause anything from slow drains to full backups of raw sewage into the home, leading to health risks and costly remediation.

How Much Do Repairs Cost in Colorado?

The average cost of a sewer line repair or replacement in Colorado ranges from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on:

• Depth of the line
• Distance to the street connection
• Required permits
• Excavation vs. trenchless repair
• Whether the repair involves street or sidewalk disruption

HomeAdvisor estimates sewer line replacement typically costs homeowners between $1,000 and $7,000 nationwide, with Denver-area costs often skewing higher due to local soil conditions and permitting.

When Should Buyers Schedule a Sewer Scope?

Buyers are encouraged to order a sewer scope inspection:

• Any time they’re buying a home more than 20 years old
• If there are large trees on or near the property
• If the home has experienced drainage issues or slow toilets
• As part of a pre-purchase inspection, even on newer homes

It’s also common for sellers to provide sewer scope documentation up front to help support a clean transaction and limit surprises during escrow.

What Agents Should Know

Agents who regularly recommend sewer scopes stand out as thorough and informed advocates for their clients. While it’s an optional service, including it in the buyer’s due diligence checklist shows you’re anticipating potential roadblocks before they become dealbreakers.

Here’s how agents can explain it to clients:

• “You wouldn’t buy a house without seeing inside the walls—why would you buy without checking what’s under the ground?”
  “A $250 inspection could save you $10,000 if there’s a hidden issue.”
• “We’ve seen contracts fall apart over sewer problems. It’s one of the most expensive repairs a homeowner can face.”

Agents working with sellers can also use a clean sewer scope report as a marketing tool to reassure buyers the home has been well maintained.

What’s the Inspection Process Like?

A sewer scope inspection through Axium typically includes:

• Camera insertion through a cleanout or plumbing access
• Video footage showing the full length of the lateral line to the city tap
• Identification of pipe type, condition, and any obstructions or damage
• Digital report with recommendations and video for buyer review

If defects are found, the inspector may recommend contacting a licensed plumber for repair estimates, which can then be used for negotiation or repairs prior to closing.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Sewer Line in Colorado Homes

Even with a clean inspection, homeowners should take precautions to keep their sewer systems in good shape:

• Avoid planting trees or shrubs near the sewer line
• Never flush wipes, paper towels, or grease
• Install root barriers if trees are present near pipes
• Schedule professional cleanouts every few years for high-use systems
• Monitor for warning signs like slow drains, bubbling toilets, or lawn soft spots

Final Thoughts for Buyers and Agents in Colorado

In a competitive market like Denver or Boulder, buyers are often tempted to waive inspections to win a bidding war. But skipping a $250 sewer scope could end up costing five figures in repair costs just months after closing.

Axium Home Inspections encourages both buyers and agents to treat underground infrastructure with the same attention as roofs, HVAC systems, and foundations. Whether you’re purchasing a 1910 bungalow in Capitol Hill or a 2019 build in Highlands Ranch, what’s below the surface still matters.

For more information or to schedule a sewer scope with Axium, visit us online or speak with your licensed home inspector during your next evaluation.