Foundation Concerns

6 years ago

last modified: 6 years ago

Hi, We are purchasing a house in the midwest. It is 80 years old and has a concrete block foundation. I am concerned about horizontal ( and step) cracks in the foundation, which both the inspector and realtor say are not a concern. Here is why they say that- there are two walls that have had retrofitting done by a reputable company. One wall was done more than 30 years ago, with vertical steel beams, the other repair was done 2 years ago, with 3 plates. Those were the only braces put in, and our realtor says more would have been put in had the company thought they were necessary. However, the cracks extend all around the perimeter of the foundation, and at about 18 inches from the floor, 3 feet from the floor and 4 feet from the floor. I am attaching a picture of one area that shows some of what I observed. Obviously, I am concerned about whether this foundation is still moving....any expert thoughts?

Featured Answer

pamghatten

6 years ago

Don't be embarassed, tell your realtor that you need an inspection so you have confidence that the house you want to buy is in good condition. Don't back down. Shame on your realtor for dismissing your concerns.

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Comments (9)

pamghatten
6 years ago
You need to hire a structual engineer to inspect for you. Only they will be able to tell you if it's really OK or not.
green thanked pamghatten
green
Original Author
6 years ago
that is what I think, too. Our realtor is resisting that and keep assuring me that the foundation is fine, as did the home inspector.
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formulaross20
6 years ago
Ditto the structural engineer. It's your nickel, not the realtor or inspector's; they get to walk away from any issue.
green
Original Author
6 years ago
last modified: 6 years ago
I feel the same way. But I feel sort of frustrated but also embarrassed to keep pushing. I uploaded more photos from the housing inspection so you can see the cracks and bracing more clearly.
green
Original Author
6 years ago
last modified: 6 years ago
In all fairness, it probably not he is not being dismissive, so much as trying to be reassuring. I am just a worrier.
Denita
6 years ago
Agree 100% with pamghatten.
blubird
6 years ago
Along with those concerns, how did you find your inspector?
green
Original Author
6 years ago
We thought the inspector was fantastic. He took a lot of time and went over everything very carefully. We talked to the realtor this afternoon, and are going to get an engineer to inspect the basement, so my mind is now at ease. Thank you all for encouraging me to go with my gut-I will feel much better knowing specifically what we are dealing with.