Foundation Inspections

We are routinely engaged to perform foundation inspections. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about our foundation inspections.

What should I expect at a foundation inspection?

Foundation inspections are performed by one of our professional engineers. The inspection will include a visual review of the interior and exterior of the foundation, as well as time for you to ask questions. The appointment usually lasts about 30-45 minutes. After the appointment, you will receive a report setting forth our observations and recommended repairs.

Why might I need a foundation inspection?

Foundation inspections are helpful in a few common scenarios.

Buying a Home

Foundation inspections are common in real estate transactions. When you are buying a new home, your general home inspector might recommend a foundation inspection, or you or your real estate agent might notice a crack in the new home’s foundation and decide it warrants further investigation.

Foundation Movement or Cracking

If you notice a new crack in your foundation, drywall, brick façade, or other area of your home, or if you see signs of movement in your foundation, you might consider engaging a professional engineer for a foundation inspection.

Water Intrusion

Although a wet basement is not inherently a structural problem, poor drainage around your home’s foundation can cause structural damage. Our foundation inspections include water management recommendations. We also offer detailed water mitigation plans as a separate service.

I am buying a home. Can you perform a foundation inspection alongside other inspectors?

Yes! We can usually accommodate your existing whole-home inspection window. When you contact us for an appointment, simply mention your whole-home window, and we will do our best to schedule your foundation inspection during that time.

My inspection period is very short—how soon can you perform a foundation inspection?

We understand the short timelines inherent in real estate transactions. When you contact us for an appointment, let us know what your inspection period is, and we will do our best to accommodate. For a real estate transaction, we typically send our report within 24 hours of the appointment.

Do you offer foundation repair services?

No. We believe independence is critical in this context. You can trust that we are providing an independent, unbiased assessment, because we gain no benefit from recommending costly repairs (you can read more about the importance of an independent assessment here). You can provide our report to the repair company of your choice, and that company can make the repairs.