The purchase of a home is probably the largest single investment you will ever make. You should learn as much as you can about the condition of the property and the need for any major repairs before you buy, so that you can minimize unpleasant surprises and difficulties afterwards. Of course, a home inspection also points out the positive aspects of a home, as well as the maintenance that will be necessary to keep it in good shape. After the inspection, you will have a much clearer understanding of the property you are about to purchase. If you are already a home owner, a home inspection may be used to identify problems in the making and to learn preventive measures which might avoid costly future repairs. If you are planning to sell you home, you may wish to have an inspection prior to placing your home on the market. This will give you a better understanding of conditions which may be discovered by the buyer's inspector, and an opportunity to make repairs that will put the house in better selling condition.
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Tips From R.J.D.
Cracks in poured concrete or concrete block, Stone, or Brick foundation walls can result from shrinkage, differential settlement, lateral pressure on the wall by the soil, or poor workmanship. It is not uncommon to find short cracks in the foundation walls. Cement block, Brick, and Stone foundations have a greater chance of water seepage then poured concrete foundations due to the numerous joints. We recommend all cracks be sealed as a precautionary measure against water and insect penetration. Since it is not possible to determine from a single visual inspection whether the cracks differential settlement is active or dormant, the wall should be checked for incremental movement over a period of time, usually several months or years.
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