Inspect foundation

Inspect your foundation inside and out to catch problems before they become expensive repairs.

Why it matters#

Foundation issues caught early are manageable. Left unchecked, small cracks become major structural problems costing tens of thousands to repair.

What you'll need#

Tools#

• Flashlight
• Screwdriver or awl (for probing)
• Camera or smartphone
• Notepad
• Tape measure

Steps#

1. Start with the exterior#

Walk around your home's perimeter, examining all visible foundation walls. Look at the concrete, block, or stone surfaces.

2. Look for cracks#

Note any cracks in the foundation. Hairline cracks are common and usually not concerning. Cracks wider than 1/4 inch, horizontal cracks, or stair-step cracks in block foundations need professional evaluation.

3. Check for water staining#

Look for discoloration, efflorescence (white mineral deposits), or staining that indicates water penetration or pooling.

4. Examine the grading#

The ground should slope away from your foundation—at least 6 inches of drop over the first 10 feet. Flat or inward-sloping grades direct water toward your foundation.

5. Inspect window wells#

Check basement window wells for debris accumulation and proper drainage. Standing water in wells can leak through windows.

6. Move to the interior#

Go to your basement or crawl space. Bring a flashlight for dark areas.

7. Look for interior cracks#

Examine interior foundation walls for cracks, especially at corners and around windows. Note the size and direction of any cracks.

8. Check for moisture#

Look for water stains, dampness, efflorescence, mold, or musty odors. Feel the walls—they should be dry to the touch.

9. Examine the floor#

Look for cracks in the basement floor, especially ones that have shifted or are raised. Check for dampness or water intrusion.

10. Document findings#

Take photos of any concerns and note their locations. Measure significant cracks and photograph them with a ruler for scale.

Pro tips#

• Inspect in spring (after ground thaws) and fall (before ground freezes)
• After heavy rains, check for new water intrusion while ground is saturated
• Monitor cracks over time—place tape across them and check if it tears
• Most foundations have some cracks; the key is whether they're changing or causing water problems

Warnings#

• Horizontal cracks or bowing walls indicate serious structural pressure—get professional evaluation immediately
• Stair-step cracks in block foundations often indicate settling
• Standing water in basements can indicate drainage problems that worsen over time

When to call a pro#

Contact a structural engineer or foundation specialist if you notice: cracks wider than 1/4 inch, horizontal or stair-step cracks, bowing or bulging walls, doors and windows that stick (indicating shifting), floors that slope significantly, or persistent water intrusion. Foundation repairs can be expensive, but catching problems early prevents larger costs.