Drains & sewer
Should You Get a Sewer Scope Before Buying a Home?
Updated · Kestrel editorial
What it finds
- Roots in joints
- Cracks and breaks
- Bellies (sags) where waste collects
- Offset joints
- Pipe material changes
Why it matters here
Older Fort Collins, Greeley, Loveland and Longmont neighborhoods have clay and cast-iron laterals, and homeowners generally own the line to the city main.
Using the results
Ask for the video and locate marks, then use them to negotiate repairs or price.
Reading the report
A good report includes video, the pipe materials, footage marks for any defects, and whether the line connects to a city main or septic. Common findings in older Fort Collins, Loveland and Greeley neighborhoods include clay pipe with root intrusion, offset joints and bellies.
Should You Get a Sewer Scope Before Buying a Home?: follow-up questions
Who pays for the sewer scope?
Usually the buyer, as part of inspections. Findings can be used to negotiate repairs or credits.
Does a home inspection include the sewer line?
Usually not. A standard inspection doesn't look inside the sewer lateral.
Every home differs; editorial standards.