Maloney Construction | Foundation Expert | Phone (415) 895-5304
Maloney Construction, Inc. | Foundation Repair | Underpinning Contractor
Diamond Certified | Maloney Construction, Inc.

Real Estate Foundation Inspections and Evaluations

The foundation of a home plays a vital role in supporting the entire structure. Problems with the foundation can cause gradual damage and lead to expensive repairs.

A foundation inspection evaluates the stability and condition of the home, allowing you to spot issues early or steer clear of properties that might be costly to renovate.

Including this step in the home buying process can save you from future headaches and unexpected expenses.

 

What is a Foundation Inspection?

A foundation inspection evaluates the structural integrity of a home's foundation. Performed by a professional inspector or structural engineer, this detailed assessment looks for signs of damage, wear, and potential issues. By identifying problems early, the inspection helps prevent costly repairs and ensures the home’s safety.

The main objective of a foundation inspection is to catch issues before they escalate, allowing for timely repairs that can save you from more extensive and expensive damage later. Regular inspections are particularly crucial for older homes, properties in areas with challenging soil conditions, or homes that have been affected by natural events such as earthquakes or floods.

 

Why do I need an inspection?

Foundation problems can lead to serious damage in a home, including bowing walls, crumbling floors, and a collapsing roof.

If you notice signs of potential foundation issues in a house you're considering buying, it's wise to have a professional inspection. With this information, you can decide whether to proceed with the purchase, negotiate for repairs, or seek a financial credit.

 

What should I expect during a foundation inspection?

We will conduct a visual examination of the home's interior, exterior, and surrounding area, checking for moisture, cracks, and other signs of damage. We will then measure floor levels and assess the alignment of walls, doors, and other elements using a level.

 

When Should I Get a Foundation Inspection?

Scheduling a foundation inspection is essential in several situations:

  • Buying a Home:
    Before purchasing, have the foundation inspected to identify potential issues and avoid unexpected repairs. It can also aid in negotiations if problems are found.
  • Annual Checkups:
    Regular yearly inspections help catch minor issues early, preventing them from becoming major problems and maintaining your home’s structural health.
  • Post-Disaster:After events like earthquakes or floods, an inspection is crucial to detect and address any hidden damage to the foundation.
  • Visible Signs of Damage:
    If you see cracks in walls or floors, water damage, or uneven floors, schedule an inspection promptly to prevent more extensive repairs.
  • Planning Major Renovations:
    Ensure your foundation is in good condition before starting significant renovations to confirm it can support the added changes and avoid structural issues.

Limitations and Limitation of Liability
The opinions contained in this report are based on a limited walk-through visual inspection of the premises and that no Structural Plans describing As-Built details and conditions were available for review. Note also, that no materials have been removed or tested. This report shall not be misconstrued as a statement regarding structural integrity related to material quality standards or current design codes. Observations and structural engineering services have been performed in accordance with generally accepted structural engineering principles and practices. Statements and conclusions in this report are based upon exposed conditions and access available at the time of the site visit, which was severely limited. We do not imply that other hazards do not exist and do not assume responsibility for the capacity of the structure or foundation to resist vertical or lateral forces.

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