Foundation and Footing Inspection

A Foundation and Footing Inspection is Phase One of the New Home Construction Process. The property’s foundation is one of the most important aspects of a new home. This is the phase before the concrete is poured for the properties foundation and also called a Pre-Pour Inspection

Why Get A Footing And Foundation Inspection?

You want to get a footing and foundation inspection to make sure your foundation is constructed correctly and is in compliance with building codes and standards. If not checked properly, foundation issues could arise. To prevent any problems that could lead to significant issues with the foundation, getting this inspection is essential.

Examining your home’s foundation is key to spotting potential issues early on, averting major structural harm. Problems with the foundation usually escalate over time, resulting in higher expenses for repairs. Additionally, unresolved issues can cause increasingly severe damage to the structure built on the foundation the longer they go unaddressed.

How will This Help me?

A foundation and footing inspection is pivotal for any homeowner, as it serves as an early detection system for structural issues that could lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed. By identifying problems such as cracks, uneven loading, or water damage early on, the inspection helps in mitigating risks before they escalate into major concerns. Additionally, it provides peace of mind by ensuring the structural integrity of the home is maintained, safeguarding the occupants’ safety. For potential buyers, such an inspection can be a crucial factor in the decision-making process, offering an assurance of the property’s condition. Ultimately, investing in a foundation and footing inspection can save money, time, and ensure the long-term durability of the home.

How we Perform a Foundation Inspection

1. Inspect the Exterior of the Foundation

Our inspector will diligently search for signs of bulging or leaning, which indicate an uneven load on the foundation, ensuring that both the foundation and the house walls are properly aligned and level. They will meticulously check for cracks in the foundation, focusing on those wider than 1/8 inch, cracks that extend around concrete corners, display a stair-step pattern on block walls, or manifest as horizontal lines across the walls. Additionally, our inspector will be on the lookout for any crumbling concrete, a telltale sign of the foundation’s deterioration.

2. Inspect the Interior of the Foundation

Our inspector will thoroughly inspect concrete slabs and piers for any visible damage, ensuring the integrity of these foundational components. They will also examine support beams and load-bearing structures to confirm they are in good condition and capable of sustaining the home’s weight. Ensuring everything is level and there are no signs of buckling within the foundation is a critical step in our assessment process.

The inspection includes a detailed check of metal or steel piers for rust, which may indicate the presence of moisture in the basement or crawl space, potentially compromising the foundation’s stability. Additionally, our inspector will closely scrutinize the tops of concrete piers in pier and beam foundations for any signs of broken connections or movement, which could affect the overall structural integrity of the home.

3. Assess any Water Damage to the Foundation

Our inspector will pay special attention to underhome areas, recognizing the importance of identifying water damage or any indications of moisture. They will look for dampness near cracks, decay in wooden components, and the presence of musty smells, which are telltale signs of moisture issues. The appearance of efflorescence, a white powdery residue on foundation walls caused by water intrusion, will also be checked thoroughly.

Furthermore, since moist environments attract insects and rodents, our inspector will be alert to any signs of pest infestations, understanding that such issues could stem from moisture problems under the home. This comprehensive approach ensures that all potential risks associated with moisture are identified and addressed.

BEFORE WE CAN PERFORM A Foundation inspection, THESE ASPECTS MUST BE KNOWN

Number of Stories
Type of Exterior Siding
A Permit Drawing Must Be On Site For Review by the Inspector or Received From the Client Before Scheduling the Inspection

Our inspector will check these areas during the Foundation & Footing Inspection

Checking the Width, Depth and Condition of the Footing Forms
Waterproofing
Undisturbed Soil
Minimum Depth
Footing
Grading
Reinforcing Bars
Gridline Locations

Schedule Your Foundation and Footing Inspection Today

Want To Know More About The Other Phases in New Construction?

The other phases in New Construction are Pre-Drywall, Pre-Settlement, and 11th Month Warranty. Learn more about the other phases and how the inspection is conducted for each phase

We Inspect Homes Built By:

And More!

Pre-Drywall Inspection

The Pre-drywall inspection will help look for any deficiencies that otherwise might be overlooked or hard to determine once the drywall goes up.—the Phase after Footing and Foundation

Pre-Settlement Inspection

An inspection will help assist in discovering any defects at the property before settlement—the Phase after Pre-Drywall.

11th Month Warranty Inspection

After living in the home for a while, you might notice there are still some issues with the house. An inspection can help get these issues corrected before your builder's 1-year warranty expires—the Phase after Final Walk-Through.