Colorado buyer due diligence
What a sewer scope can reveal, which records to request, and why ownership and repair responsibility must be confirmed for the exact property.
Quick checklist
A technician sends a camera through the accessible building sewer to document visible conditions such as roots, offsets, cracks, deterioration, bellies, or blockage. Access and visibility can be limited, and a scope is not a guarantee against future failure.
Ask the approximate pipe material and age, whether a cleanout exists, prior backups or repairs, and whether the line is private, shared, or maintained by a utility or district. Older trees and older housing can justify closer review, but age alone does not establish condition.
Have the inspector explain the video and location markers. If a defect is reported, obtain the appropriate cleaning, repair, replacement, or specialist recommendation and follow the contract deadlines for any objection or negotiation.
Verified August 2026. General education only—not inspection, engineering, insurance, tax, title, or legal advice. Your signed contract controls rights and deadlines.