Inspection Red Flags in Older Denver Homes
Denver's older housing stock has charm — and a few recurring problems. Here's what a good inspection should catch.
Denver's pre-1970 bungalows and Tudors are some of the most charming homes in the metro. They also share a handful of predictable issues. None are automatic deal-breakers — but you want to find them before closing, not after.
Sewer lines
Old clay sewer laterals crack and fill with tree roots. A sewer scope is the single most valuable extra inspection you can order on an older Denver home — a few hundred dollars against a five-figure repair.
Electrical panels and knob-and-tube
Outdated panels and remnants of knob-and-tube wiring affect both safety and insurability. Some carriers won't write a policy until it's updated.
Foundation movement
Colorado's expansive soils move. Hairline cracks are normal; stair-step cracking, sticking doors, and sloped floors warrant a structural engineer's opinion.
Asbestos and the systems' age
Older homes may have asbestos in popcorn ceilings or floor tile — usually fine if undisturbed. Note the age of the roof, furnace, and water heater so you can budget for what's near the end of its life.