When Do You Need a Foundation Inspection?
Home buyers should always commission an independent foundation inspection before closing — the seller's disclosure is not a substitute. Homeowners noticing cracks in walls or floors, sticking doors, sloping floors, or gaps around windows and doors should have an inspection before problems worsen. Mortgage lenders increasingly require foundation clearance on older homes in the Chattanooga area.
What Our Inspection Covers
Our inspection includes: exterior perimeter evaluation of foundation walls, visible crack mapping and measurement, interior floor level readings with a digital manometer, crawl space inspection (if applicable), drainage assessment around the foundation, and review of any prior repair history. We photograph and document all findings.
Foundation Inspection Cost in Chattanooga
A standard residential inspection runs $200–$350 for homes under 3,000 sq ft. Larger homes, crawl spaces requiring extensive evaluation, or commercial properties run $350–$500. We provide a written report with photos, findings, and recommended action — or confirmation that no action is needed.
Independent Inspections vs. Contractor Sales Inspections
Many foundation repair companies offer free inspections — but their inspection leads directly to a sales pitch. Our inspection fee covers an independent, unbiased evaluation. We have no financial interest in recommending repairs beyond what genuinely exists. Buyers and attorneys trust our reports for that reason.