Most of the time, we are not called out just because someone is curious. We are there because a homeowner has noticed something that does not seem right. A crack that was not there before. Water where it should not be. A floor that feels uneven. A wall that looks slightly bowed.
Our job during the inspection is to figure out the root cause of what you are seeing and recommend a solution that stabilizes the structure, keeps water out, and protects your home long term.
A foundation or crawl space inspection should never feel rushed or mysterious. Our goal is to understand what is happening at your home, explain it clearly, and help you decide what makes sense moving forward.
Here is what we look for during your free inspection:
Exterior grading and drainage
We usually begin outside. Water management is one of the biggest factors in foundation performance, so we pay close attention to how water moves around your home.
We look for:
- Areas where soil slopes toward the foundation
- Standing water or low spots
- Downspouts that discharge too close to the home
- Signs of erosion or soil washout
Poor drainage can contribute to foundation movement and moisture intrusion, so this step helps us determine whether water is part of the problem.
Foundation walls and visible cracks
Next, we examine the foundation walls both outside and inside when accessible. Not all cracks are structural, but their size, direction, and location matter.
We evaluate:
- Vertical cracks
- Stair step cracks in block or brick
- Horizontal cracks
- Signs of bowing or inward movement
Long horizontal cracks can indicate pressure from surrounding soil. In those cases, the goal is to relieve pressure and reinforce the wall before further movement occurs.
Moisture and water intrusion
If you have a basement or crawl space, we check for signs of active or past moisture.
This includes:
- Water stains or efflorescence
- Damp insulation
- Musty odors
- Mold growth
- Standing water
Water where it does not belong is often a symptom of drainage issues, hydrostatic pressure, or both. Identifying the source allows us to recommend a solution that keeps the space dry moving forward.
Crawl space supports and framing
In crawl spaces, we look closely at the support system beneath the home. This includes beams, joists, piers, and existing support posts.
We check for:
- Sagging or uneven beams
- Wood rot
- Shifting piers
- Areas where additional support may be needed
If floors feel uneven inside the home, the cause is often visible below. Our goal is to determine whether simple adjustments or additional structural support is needed to stabilize the system.
Interior symptoms
Inside the home, we pay attention to signs that may indicate movement or settlement.
We look at:
- Cracks in drywall
- Doors and windows that stick
- Uneven floors
- Gaps between trim and walls
These interior symptoms help us connect what you are seeing upstairs with what may be happening beneath the home.
Listening to your concerns
Just as important as what we see is what you have experienced. We ask when you first noticed the issue and whether it appears to be changing.
Understanding your timeline helps us determine whether the problem is active and how urgent a solution may be.
Clear recommendations focused on solutions
After the inspection, we explain what we found and why it is happening. If repairs are recommended, we outline solutions designed to stabilize the structure, manage water properly, and prevent further damage.
You will receive clear options and a detailed scope of work so you can make an informed decision without pressure.
Peace of mind starts with understanding the root cause
Every inspection starts with a concern and ends with clarity. Sometimes we confirm that everything is stable. Other times we identify issues that should be addressed sooner rather than later. Either way, you walk away with a better understanding of your home.
If you have noticed a crack, moisture, or movement and want to understand what is causing it, call 336.867.0298 or visit dunwellsr.com to schedule your free inspection.