A foundation inspection costs $400 to $750 and can help identify cracks, leaks, or other foundation damage or defects.

During a foundation inspection, the inspector will look for the following:

• Cracks in the walls or floor slab
• Uneven walls or floors
• Gaps between the foundation and the ground
• Signs of water damage, such as mold or mildew
• Signs of foundation settling, such as doors or windows that are difficult to open or close

Yes, foundation inspections are worth the cost, especially when you consider the inspection cost is a fraction of the cost of foundation repairs. Your foundation is the most important part of your home and problems such as small cracks or leaks can lead to bigger problems and expensive repairs if the issues go undetected.

Foundation inspections are especially important for older homes, homes in areas with poor soil conditions, and homes that have been damaged in a natural disaster such as an earthquake or flood. If you are considering a home purchase, an inspection can provide peace of mind and ensure that the foundation is in good condition.

A foundation inspection is typically performed by a home inspector or structural engineer near you.

Home inspectors are licensed professionals who inspect all aspects of the home, including the foundation. Most home inspectors evaluate the foundation as part of a complete home inspection during a real estate transaction.

Structural engineers are specialized engineers with a deeper understanding of the design and construction of foundations. They are typically hired to inspect foundations when a problem is suspected.

You can inspect your own foundation if you know what to look for, but it is best to leave the inspection to a qualified professional. There are some steps you can take to monitor your foundation and catch problems early, including:

• Keep an eye on your property– Frequently check your foundation for cracks, leaks, or smells so that you detect issues in the early stages before they worsen and cost more to repair.
• Fix any problems ASAP – If you see signs of foundation issues such as leaks, cracks, or settling, make repairs promptly. The sooner you fix a foundation problem, the less the repair will cost.
• Prevent future issues – Take steps to prevent future foundation problems by dealing with moisture and drainage problems such as installing a sump pump and waterproofing the basement.

When you are preparing for a foundation inspection, be sure to ask these important questions:

• How much does the foundation inspection cost?
• What details will your report include?
• What types of foundations do you routinely inspect?
• Do I need to be home for the inspection?
• What kind of access do you need?
• How long will your foundation inspection take?
• What kind of documents do I need to have ready for you?
• How soon can I expect the report?
• If you find an issue, can you recommend some foundation repair contractors?

The first step in choosing a reputable foundation inspector is to visit HomeGuide's list of experienced home inspectors and structural engineers. To narrow down that list, consider these recommendations:

• Check online reviews from HomeGuide and Google.
• Request a sample copy of a foundation inspection report to see what they look for.
• Ask for multiple references from past clients.
• Only choose an inspector that allows you to attend the inspection.
• Confirm if the inspector is certified by ASHI, InterNACHI, or AHI.