Foundation repairs are expensive. They cost anywhere between $2,174 to $7,812. Occasionally, when a major repair is required, you could pay a whopping $12,000! You could preemptively protect your financial investment with a simple and cost-effective solution – a foundation inspection.
Generally, a foundation inspection costs $740. This inspection provides a detailed report on the structural integrity and stability of your prospective home. Additionally, regular inspections help you stay on top of the effects that weather and seismic activities have on your home’s foundation.
Regular inspections help you 🔍
- Ensure Safety: Uneven walls, roof leaks, and changes in chimney structure could indicate a significant issue requiring immediate attention.
- Maintain Property Value: A well-maintained property can get a high appraised value. This will subsequently help you stay up-to-date with your home’s market value.
- Protect Your Home From Disasters: 3 million American homes are affected by natural disasters and face hidden foundation issues. A foundation inspection helps you tackle these hidden threats.
What Is Foundation Inspection?
A home foundation inspection is a thorough examination of your home’s structure. It identifies problems like cracks, shifts, and weaknesses and can proactively prevent damage and expenses.
Foundation and home inspections are often interchangeably used. However, they have different purposes. A foundation inspection focuses on your walls, doors, and chimneys. On the other hand, a home inspection assesses your entire property.
Foundation Inspection Process
Typically, a foundation inspection can take up to 90 minutes. A qualified inspector will:
- Visually Inspect Your Property: The inspector will look for issues like cracks or shifts in your presence.
- Measure and Analyze Your Home: They will analyze factors like the levelness and structural instability on your property.
- Report the Findings: In 24 hours, you will receive a foundation inspection report with the deviation measurements and a repair plan that can be followed.
Generally, every assessment does not lead to foundation repairs. Therefore, an inspector’s report is crucial to determine if your home requires major repairs or not.
Who Conducts a Foundation Inspection?
Certified experts specializing in structural integrity conduct foundation inspections. With 5.03 million homes sold in 2022 and more expected in 2023, the demand for these foundation inspectors is booming.
10 Indicators of Foundation Problems
Problems in your foundation can manifest in various ways, including:
- Cracks in the Walls or Floors: A 1/4 inch wide gap is a big tell-tell sign for foundation trouble, causing moisture and weakness in the walls.
- Uneven Doors and Windows: Misaligned or jammed doors and windows are a potential sign of foundation issues.
- Sloping Floors: Uneven walking area indicates structural problems in the long run.
- Bowing or Leaning Walls: Uneven foundation or water damage can lead to uneven pressure over the walls.
- Gaps Around Windows and Doors: Movement in the foundation can cause misalignment of doors, windows, and hardware problems.
- Sticking Windows or Doors: A shifting foundation could lead to a jam or improper latch.
- Basement or Crawl Space Moisture: Foundation cracks allow water to seep in, leading to rot and unpleasant odors.
- Chimney Separation: It is a clear sign of having gaps in your foundation.
- Exterior Cracks: Tilts and splits in the foundation structure are proof of unwanted water pressure against internal walls.
- Mold and Mildew: Cracks in the basement and external area lead to water retention and moisture.
What Is the Cost of a Foundation Inspection?
On average, the cost ranges between $300 and $700. It varies depending on your location and the size of your home. However, in some high-end locations, the amount can shoot up to $3,000.
For an accurate estimate, reach out to certified professionals in your area.
When Should You Get an Inspection Done?
You should inspect your home once or twice every year. Generally, an inspection is scheduled in these scenarios:
1. Before You Buy a Home:
Inspect and repair the property before buying to secure your investment. It helps you prevent potential surprises after the purchase.
2. Before You Sell Your Home:
For sellers, a pre-listing inspection boosts your property value and attracts more buyers.
3. After Significant Natural Events:
Foundation inspection is necessary after significant natural events such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods. These events can cause critical damages that may not be immediately visible.
4. When You Notice Warning Signs:
If you observe cracks in the walls, uneven floors, or doors and windows that don’t close properly, it’s time to get an inspection done.
5. As Part of Routine Maintenance:
Regular foundation inspections as part of your home maintenance routine can help you catch problems early.
6. For Older Homes:
Older homes are more prone to foundation problems due to wear and tear. If you own or plan to purchase an older property, an inspection is a wise precaution.
7. Before Renovations:
It is advisable to inspect before going forward with any renovation plans to ensure your existing foundation can support the changes.
Ways to Conduct a DIY Inspection
DIY inspections can help you save money and uncover issues before they surprise you. Here are some ways you can perform a simple inspection yourself:
1. Exterior Check – Walk around your home’s exterior and look for:
- Bulging or leaning walls that indicate uneven load
- Cracks wider than 1/9 inch
- Crumbling concrete areas
- Moisture or erosion, especially after rain
2. Water Damage – Inspect under home areas for:
- Wet spots near cracks
- Rotten wood or musty odors
- White powdery substance on walls
- Insects and rodents drawn to moisture
3. Check Foundation Elements – Examine other structural elements of your foundation:
- Concrete slabs for damage
- Support beams
- Levelness of pillars
- Rust on metal as a sign of moisture
Bottom Line
A foundation inspection is a proactive measure to ensure the safety, longevity, and value of your property. It brings assurance and clarity to home buyers, sellers, and homeowners.
Approximately 25% of homes in America have structural issues. Early detection can save you thousands in repair expenses. Therefore, it is advisable to get a foundation inspection every once or twice a year before you buy your property.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much time does it take to conduct a foundation inspection?
A foundation inspection takes up to 90 minutes or longer. But in some cases it can take longer than that, depending on the size and condition of your home.
At what point should I be concerned about cracks in my foundation?
Foundation cracks exceeding 1/9 inch in width is a clear signal to take precaution.
How often should I check my foundation?
Checking your foundation every once or twice a year is considered to be a good practice.
