Crawl Space Inspection: What Do Inspectors Look For?

August 15, 2022

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Crawl spaces are not always inspected during home inspections, but they should be! A crawl space can become damp and moldy over time, which can create poor air quality and unhealthy living conditions in your home. Here’s what you should look for when having your crawl space inspected by a crawl space inspector, so you can make the necessary repairs before it’s too late!

A crawl space is an important part of your home that helps to keep the foundation of your house in good condition. Without a properly functioning crawl space, your home could experience serious problems, such as a cracked foundation or water damage. That's why it's important to have a professional inspector take a look at your crawl space on a regular basis.

Leaks near crawl space floor

If you have a leak in your crawl space, it's important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Not only can leaks lead to water damage, but they can also attract pests. Crawl spaces that are below grade level are especially susceptible to ground moisture problems. Many homeowners will often experience a musty smell or mold buildup due to the lack of ventilation and air circulation. These issues can cause allergic reactions, which can be harmful for those with asthma or allergies. To prevent these problems from happening, make sure that the crawl space is well-ventilated and that any moisture is eliminated before it sets in. Receive a crawl space inspection when you see signs of damage.

leak in the crawl space

Sewer gases in crawl space

Crawl space inspectors are looking for any evidence of sewer gases in the crawl space. Sewer gases can be very dangerous and can cause serious health problems if they are present in high enough concentrations. If you think you may have a problem with sewer gases in your crawl space, it is important to have it inspected as soon as possible. It is also important to fix the issue quickly; otherwise, there could be major health risks involved.

Efflorescence on foundation walls

One of the things that inspectors look for during a crawl space inspection is efflorescence on the foundation walls. This is a sure sign of water damage and can lead to further problems down the road if not addressed. In order to remove efflorescence, you'll need to use a special cleaner designed specifically for this purpose. Once you've removed the efflorescence, be sure to repair any leaks that may have caused it in the first place. 

Wetness in crawl space

Wetness in your crawl space is one of the biggest problems that inspectors look for. This is because water can damage the structure of your home, and it can also lead to mold and mildew growth. If you have a wet crawl space, you'll need to take steps to dry it out and repair any damage that has been done. Areas with high humidity levels may be prone to other kinds of damage too, like animal infestation or pests. These are often signs that there's something going on with the foundation or drainage system under your house.

wetness in crawl space

Shifting crawl space support beams

One of the things that inspectors look for during a crawl space inspection is shifting crawl space support beams. This can be a serious problem, as it can cause the floors above the crawl space to become uneven and eventually collapse. If you see any signs of shifting beams, it's important to have a professional come in and take a look. Another sign that your home may need a crawl space repair is when there are cracks or breaks in the foundation wall.

Mold in crawl space insulation

One of the things that inspectors look for during a crawl space inspection is mold in the insulation. This is because mold can cause serious health problems for people who are exposed to it. Additionally, mold can damage the structure of your home. If you have mold in your crawl space, you should have it removed by a professional as soon as possible. Untreated mold poses a serious health risk as well as potential property damage. The best way to avoid these risks is to call a professional with experience in both water and mold remediation before the problem gets out of hand.

Rotting sheathing or framing timbers

One of the things that inspectors look for during a crawl space inspection is rotting sheathing or framing timbers. This can be a serious problem because it can lead to the collapse of the structure. If you see any signs of rot, you should have the area repaired as soon as possible. Otherwise, this problem will only get worse over time and could cause your house to come crashing down on top of you. Rotting sheathing or framing timbers are definitely something that you want to take care of quickly.

Picking a contractor

Repairing your crawl space costs on average $6,000. It's not a cheap project which is why you want to be confident in the contractor you choose to work with. An inspection before anything else will help set you up for success. When looking for an inspector, keep these questions in mind

  • In what capacity are they qualified to do this job?
  • How long have they been performing inspections like this one?
  • What qualifications do they have (e.g., certifications)?
  • What standards of care and protocols do they follow during inspections?
  • What makes them stand out from other contractors in their field?

A good contractor will also offer you an estimate for how much the repair might cost based on what they find after inspecting. Hiring a reputable company can save you money in the long run by giving you peace of mind that your home is structurally sound and won't cause any further damage if left unchecked.

The easiest way to find a reliable contractor is to ask family and friends for recommendations. If you're looking online, make sure to check reviews and talk with potential contractors before scheduling an inspection. Head into your crawl space ready to ask as many questions as possible so you can feel confident in your choice of foundation repair contractor. Call our team at Springfield Foundation Repair Experts for more information today!

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