Foundation Inspection: Why Is It Important for a Home?

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.

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:

1. 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.
2. Uneven Doors and Windows: Misaligned or jammed doors and windows are a potential sign of foundation issues.
3. Sloping Floors: Uneven walking area indicates structural problems in the long run.
4. Bowing or Leaning Walls: Uneven foundation or water damage can lead to uneven pressure over the walls.
5. Gaps Around Windows and Doors: Movement in the foundation can cause misalignment of doors, windows, and hardware problems.
6. Sticking Windows or Doors: A shifting foundation could lead to a jam or improper latch.
7. Basement or Crawl Space Moisture: Foundation cracks allow water to seep in, leading to rot and unpleasant odors.
8. Chimney Separation: It is a clear sign of having gaps in your foundation.
9. Exterior Cracks: Tilts and splits in the foundation structure are proof of unwanted water pressure against internal walls.
10. 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.