What Your Sewer Scope Report Really Tells You

How to Interpret the Findings—and Why It Matters for Your Property

If you've recently had a sewer scope inspection completed—or you're about to schedule one—you might be wondering: What exactly does the report mean? At The Sewer Scope Company, we believe that knowledge is power. That’s why we not only provide high-definition video inspections of your sewer line but also deliver clear, easy-to-understand reports that help you make informed decisions.


In this blog, we’ll break down what’s included in a typical sewer scope report, what common issues mean for your home or investment property, and why it’s important to act on the results. Whether you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a property in the Denver Metro area, this guide is for you.


What Is a Sewer Scope Report?

Your sewer scope report is a visual and written summary of the condition of your property’s lateral sewer line—the pipe that connects your home to the city’s main sewer system. The report includes:

  • A narrated video recording of the full inspection
  • Timestamped observations at points of concern
  • Still images of defects, obstructions, or damage
  • Summary notes highlighting any areas that may need maintenance or repair
  • Professional, unbiased recommendations


Key Findings in a Sewer Scope Report—And What They Mean

Here’s what you might see in your report, and how to interpret each item:


1. Tree Root Intrusion

  • What it means: Roots have found small cracks or joints in your sewer pipe and are growing inside, seeking moisture.
  • Implication: Roots can cause blockages or pipe collapse over time if left untreated. Jetting or pipe replacement may be required.
  • Common in: Older neighborhoods in Denver, Lakewood, Edgewater, and Highlands Ranch with mature landscaping.


2. Cracks or Fractures

  • What it means: The pipe is physically damaged—usually due to soil shifting, age, or pressure from above.
  • Implication: These are structural concerns. Depending on the severity, repairs or full replacement may be needed.
  • Think your line may be damaged? Call The Sewer Scope Company for an honest, second opinion.


3. Bellied or Sagging Pipe

  • What it means: A section of the pipe has settled and now forms a low spot where water and waste collect.
  • Implication: Can lead to buildup, backups, and slow drains. Over time, this may worsen into a complete blockage.

Common in: Properties built on expansive soils (like parts of Aurora and Parker).


4. Grease, Sludge, or Debris Blockages

  • What it means: Accumulated waste or non-flushable items are restricting flow.
  • Implication: Often fixable with professional drain cleaning—but repeated issues may indicate deeper problems.


5. Offset Joints

  • What it means: Pipe segments are no longer aligned due to ground movement or poor installation.
  • Implication: Can allow leaks or root entry and cause flow disruption.
  • Not sure if your offset joint is a serious problem? Our reports clearly mark the severity and show footage for your reference.


6. Corroded or Collapsing Pipe

  • What it means: Materials like cast iron or Orangeburg have degraded over time.
  • Implication: These require attention. Cast iron corrodes from the inside out, and Orangeburg (a tar-paper pipe used in older homes) is prone to collapse.
  • Common in: Homes built before 1970 in areas like Capitol Hill, Park Hill, and older parts of Arvada.


What If the Report Shows No Major Issues?

That’s great news! Even when no repairs are necessary, your sewer scope still provides valuable peace of mind. You’ll have:

  • Video proof of current condition
  • Documentation for resale or insurance
  • A baseline for future inspections
  • The opportunity to budget for any developing concerns

We often find that sewer scopes are just as useful for future planning as they are for immediate repair decisions.


Understanding Recommendations Without Fear

At The Sewer Scope Company, we go the extra mile to make sure our clients understand the report—not just receive it. That’s why we:

  • Explain issues in plain English
  • Show you footage of each problem as it’s found
  • Provide real-time explanations during the inspection
  • Deliver a digital video and summary report you can keep or share

You’ll never be left wondering what something means or what to do next.


Why It Pays to Choose The Sewer Scope Company

  • We’re local – Based in Denver and familiar with the common sewer issues in every metro neighborhood
  • We’re honest – We don’t repair pipes, so our reports are free from conflict of interest
  • We’re fast – Ideal for real estate transactions with quick report turnaround
  • We’re trusted – Recommended by top realtors, inspectors, and homeowners across Colorado

Whether you’re under contract or maintaining your home, we help you make smart decisions underground.


Serving the Entire Denver Metro Area

We inspect homes, condos, rentals, and commercial buildings across:

  • Denver (All neighborhoods)
  • Lakewood
  • Aurora
  • Arvada
  • Littleton
  • Westminster
  • Centennial
  • Thornton
  • Golden
  • Englewood


Call Now to Book or Review Your Sewer Scope Inspection

Understanding your sewer scope report shouldn’t be stressful—it should be empowering. At The Sewer Scope Company, we give you the tools, the footage, and the expert insights you need to make confident decisions for your property.