What a Foundation Inspection Includes (and Doesn't)
If you've never had a foundation inspection, you might wonder what actually happens. Here's a clear breakdown of what's included in a professional inspection — and what isn't.
What's Included
Interior Assessment
- Basement walls inspection for cracks, bowing, or staining
- Floor slab evaluation for cracks and levelness
- Water intrusion signs and moisture assessment
- Window and door alignment checks
- Visible structural support evaluation
Exterior Assessment
- Foundation wall visible sections
- Grading and drainage patterns
- Window well conditions
- Exterior crack documentation
- Downspout and drainage review
Documentation
- Photographs of all findings
- Crack measurements
- Written observations and recommendations
- Summary report
What's NOT Included
Things We Don't Do
- Repair quotes or estimates: We're inspectors, not repair companies
- Invasive testing: We don't dig, drill, or break through materials
- Engineering certifications: We're not structural engineers
- Future predictions: We document current conditions, not future performance
- Hidden area assessment: We can only inspect what's visible and accessible
Why This Matters
The distinction is important because many "free inspections" are really sales calls. When a repair company inspects your foundation, they're looking for problems to fix. An independent inspection focuses solely on accurate documentation.
How Long Does It Take?
A thorough inspection typically takes 45-90 minutes, depending on property size and complexity. Anyone offering instant assessments isn't conducting a real inspection.
