SewerOwner

While the work is happening

The buried part of a sewer job is visible for a few hours. What is not photographed then is gone, and it is the part that matters most in any later disagreement.

What this page cannot establish

  • photographs record what was visible; they do not establish that work was correct
  • SewerOwner cannot tell you whether a change order is justified
  • do not enter, lean into, or work in any excavation

What to photograph before backfill

  • the exposed pipe, from a safe distance
  • any condition being described as a reason for additional work
  • the connection point, if it is exposed
  • anything new that has been installed
  • the excavation in context, so its position on the property is clear
  • the inspector on site, if a permit inspection takes place

If a change order is raised

  • Can you photograph what you have found before it is covered?
  • What specifically has changed from what was assumed?
  • What is the additional cost, and how was it calculated?
  • Is this covered by the change-order process we agreed?
  • What happens if I want a moment to consider it?

What would change the answer

  • the open excavation itself, before backfill
  • anything described as an unexpected condition

What to do next

If additional cost is being raised, the written process is what governs — and it was agreed before today.

Check the change-order terms you agreed

If your situation is different

Related, and why