3.3. Basement, Foundation, Crawlspace & Structure

I. The inspector shall inspect

A. the foundation;
B. the basement;
C. the crawlspace; and
D. structural components.

II. The inspector shall describe:

A. the type of foundation; and
B. the location of the access to the under-floor space.


III. The inspector shall report as in need of correction:

  • observed indications of wood in contact with or near soil;

  • observed indications of active water penetration;

  • Observed indications of possible foundation movement, such as sheetrock cracks, brick cracks, out-of-square door frames, and un-level floors; and

  • any observed cutting, notching and boring of framing members that may, in the inspector's opinion, present a structural or safety concern.


IV. The inspector is not required to:

  • enter any crawl space that is not readily accessible, or where entry could cause damage or pose a hazard to him/herself.

  • move stored items or debris.

  • Operate sump pumps with inaccessible floats.

  • identify the size, spacing, span or location or determine the adequacy of foundation bolting, bracing, joists, joist spans or support systems.

  • provide any engineering or architectural service.

  • report on the adequacy of any structural system or component.

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