Sewer Scope Inspection in Northern Colorado
A sewer scope is essential for ANYONE—including new construction. When you buy a house, you're also buying a main sewer line. HD video camera reveals tree roots, cracks, bellies, and Orangeburg pipe before you buy. InterNACHI certified inspectors serving the Front Range and Northern Colorado including Loveland, Fort Collins, Greeley, Windsor, and Cheyenne, WY.
What We Find in Sewer Lines
Tree Root Intrusion
Roots seek out sewer lines for water and nutrients, entering through tiny cracks.
Cracks & Breaks
Age, ground shifting, and freeze/thaw cycles cause cracks that leak sewage.
Bellies & Sags
Low spots where waste collects, causing slow drains and eventual blockages.
Offset Joints
Misaligned pipe sections that catch debris and can eventually separate.
Orangeburg Pipe
Tar paper pipe from 1950s-70s that deteriorates and collapses.
Blockages
Grease buildup, debris, and foreign objects that restrict flow.
When Do You Need a Sewer Scope?
Every Home Purchase
A sewer line could be your biggest expense! You get insurance against a $5,000-$25,000+ surprise after closing.
New Construction Homes
Yes, even new builds! We find installation defects, construction debris, and crushed pipes in brand new homes. Don't assume new means perfect.
Older Homes
Older homes have clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg pipes that deteriorate over time.
Large Trees Near the Sewer Line
Trees within 25 feet of your sewer line are prime candidates for root intrusion.
Meet Drew McClellan
Your Northern Colorado sewer scope specialist. With 105+ five-star reviews, I provide thorough HD video inspections that reveal exactly what's happening inside your sewer line.
Unlike plumbing companies that may push unnecessary repairs, I'm an independent inspector focused solely on giving you accurate information to make informed decisions.
- InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector
- HD Video Recording Included
- Same-Day Digital Report
- $120 within driving distance
- 105+ Five-Star Google Reviews
What Northern Colorado Homebuyers Say
Trusted by homebuyers across Larimer and Weld counties for thorough, honest sewer scope inspections.
"Drew did a very thorough inspection and saved me from buying a money pit. His detailed report helped me negotiate a better deal."
"Awesome inspector. We purchased a home sight unseen and relied heavily on Drew's inspection. He was very thorough and let us know everything we needed to before closing."
"Drew's inspection was the most thorough home inspection I have ever had done! He takes his time and explains everything. Highly recommend the sewer scope add-on."
Sewer Scope Inspection Pricing
Our sewer scope inspection is one of the best investments you can make during a home purchase. With every sewer scope, you get:
- HD Video Inspection - Crystal clear footage of your entire sewer line
- Video Recording - Digital copy of the inspection for your records
- Same-Day Report - Detailed findings with screenshots and recommendations
- Expert Analysis - Clear explanation of any issues found
Northern Colorado Pipe Types & Common Issues
Different neighborhoods in Northern Colorado have different pipe materials based on when they were built. Understanding your home's pipe type helps predict potential problems.
Clay Pipe (Pre-1970s)
Common in older neighborhoods of Loveland, Fort Collins, and Greeley. Clay pipes are extremely susceptible to tree root intrusion through the joints. The roots seek out water and nutrients, eventually blocking the line entirely.
Orangeburg Pipe (1945-1972)
Made from compressed tar paper, Orangeburg was popular post-WWII due to metal shortages. These pipes deteriorate and deform over time, eventually collapsing. If your home has Orangeburg, replacement is typically recommended.
Cast Iron Pipe (1950s-1980s)
Common in mid-century homes. Cast iron corrodes from the inside out, developing scale buildup and eventually holes. We often find significant deterioration in homes 40+ years old.
PVC/ABS Pipe (1980s-Present)
Modern plastic pipes rarely have material failures, but can still develop issues from ground shifting, improper installation, or root intrusion at joints.
Important: Sewer line replacement costs $5,000-$25,000+ depending on length, depth, and whether the line runs under a driveway, landscaping, or street. A sewer scope can save you from inheriting this problem.
Sewer Scope Service Areas
We provide sewer scope inspections throughout Northern Colorado, including all of Larimer and Weld counties:
Loveland
Larimer County
Fort Collins
Larimer County
Greeley
Weld County
Windsor
Weld/Larimer
Berthoud
Larimer County
Johnstown
Weld/Larimer
Wellington
Larimer County
Timnath
Larimer County
Estes Park
Larimer County
Longmont
Boulder/Weld
Evans
Weld County
Milliken
Weld County
Sewer Line Risks by Northern Colorado City
Understanding your area's pipe types helps predict potential problems. Here's what we commonly find in each city.
Higher Risk Areas
Old Town Fort Collins, Downtown Loveland, Central Greeley
- Pre-1960 clay and cast iron pipes
- Mature trees with extensive root systems
- Orangeburg pipe in 1950s-60s homes
- Ground settling in older developments
Moderate Risk Areas
Windsor, Berthoud, Johnstown, West Greeley
- Mix of 1970s-90s cast iron and early PVC
- Agricultural areas with large cottonwoods
- Soil movement from irrigation
- Older ranch homes on septic converted to city sewer
Lower Risk (Still Recommended)
Timnath, Water Valley, RainDance, New Developments
- Modern PVC pipe construction
- Newer landscaping with smaller trees
- Ground settling still possible
- Installation defects occasionally found
Pro Tip: When we inspect in older neighborhoods like Old Town Fort Collins, Lake Loveland, or Glenmere Park, we find issues in roughly 40% of sewer lines. A sewer scope is essential in these areas.
Sewer Scope Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sewer scope inspection?
A video camera is inserted into the sewer line to visually inspect the pipe from your home to the city connection. We can see tree roots, cracks, bellies, blockages, and pipe material.
How much does it cost?
Our sewer scope inspection includes HD video footage and a same-day report. This is excellent insurance against $5,000-$25,000+ in potential repair costs.
Is it worth it in Colorado?
Absolutely. Northern Colorado has many homes with clay, cast iron, and Orangeburg pipes that deteriorate over time. Mature cottonwoods and willows are notorious for root intrusion.
What is Orangeburg pipe?
Tar paper pipe used 1945-1972 due to WWII metal shortages. It deteriorates and collapses over time. If found, replacement is typically recommended. Common in 1950s-60s Colorado homes.
How long does it take?
A sewer scope takes 15-30 minutes. When added to a home inspection, it adds minimal time to your appointment. You receive video footage and report the same day.
Can roots be cleared?
Minor root intrusion can be mechanically cut and treated. However, roots indicate cracks in the pipe that allow entry, and they typically return. Severe intrusion often requires pipe replacement.
What if problems are found?
You can negotiate repairs with the seller, request a price reduction, or walk away from the deal. Our detailed report and video footage provide the documentation you need.
Do new homes need sewer scopes?
We occasionally find installation defects, debris in the line, or damage from construction in new homes. While less common, a sewer scope provides peace of mind for any purchase.
Related Services & Service Areas
Don't Buy a Home Without a Sewer Scope
A sewer scope inspection could save you $10,000+ in unexpected repairs.