The foundation is the most important part of a building. A good foundation, constructed according to standard rules, ensures the structural integrity of the whole building. The foundation certificate ensures the safety of the building.
If the foundation is unstable or isn’t constructed properly, the entire building is at risk of collapse. Let’s go over why foundation certification is a must.
What is Foundation Certification?
So, let’s start with what foundation certification actually is. It basically means issuance of a certificate from a licensed engineer that verifies that the foundation of the building meets the requirements of the Permanent Foundations Guide for Manufactured Housing. The foundation certificate is also known as the HUD/FHA Foundation Certificate.
Why is a Foundation Certificate Needed?
A foundation certificate can be required for various purposes. Some of those are listed below:
- Compliance Assurance: To ensure that the structure of the foundation meets safety standards.
- Requirement of Lender: Foundation inspection is mandatory for Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Veterans Affairs (VA), and Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) loans.
- For Appraisals: The appraisers can ask for foundation certificates as evidence for a proper sealed foundation without any issues.
What is Foundation Inspection?
Foundation inspection is an inspection in which a certified inspector checks the foundation of a building and provides a certificate that ensures the health of the foundation.
What is Checked in The Foundation Inspection of Homes?
In the foundation inspection of a building, the structural engineer may look for the following things:
Stability of the Foundation
The structural engineer assesses the stability of the foundation, beams, pillars, and footings by examining their type. The presence of cracks can also affect the foundation’s structural strength.
Measurements of Foundation
The engineer will use the laser levels to check if the foundation is level. Any slop in the foundation can raise problems in the structure of the whole building.
Drainage Check
The inspector checks the proper grading and drainage system in the place; the water pooled around the foundation can damage it.
Issues Linked To Foundation Problems
If a foundation has any minor issues, it can become a reason for major defects in the building. Some of the problems that can be faced due to a damaged foundation are listed below:
Cracks in Walls and Gaps in the Floor
If there are visible cracks in the walls and gaps in the floor, it indicates that there are serious issues with the foundation.
Sticking of Doors and Windows
A gap or sticking in doors and windows reveals that there is an issue with the level of the foundation. It is better to get the foundation inspected and take essential steps to avoid further loss.
Uneven floors
Sloping of the floors also indicates the disturbed level of the foundation. It can weaken the structure of the building. For structural integrity, it is necessary to keep the foundation in good shape.
Water Pooling Around Foundation
Soil erosion around the foundation causes water pooling. The water pooled near the foundation can affect its strength and make it more vulnerable.
Conclusion
The foundation is the backbone of a building. The structural integrity of a building lies in the foundation. Foundation inspection is a small investment, but it helps you to plan the future of the building with peace of mind. Foundation certification is also essential for appraisal and approval of a loan. So get it done at the earliest. You can contact Linkhorns Inspection for foundation inspection in Ohio.
