Home Inspector Notes from the Field 3-1-08 High Soil

High Soil Against the Foundation

One disturbing trend among builders and home owners in the Houston region is the lack of attention to the grading and adequate exposure of the foundation face.  This is a particular concern as Houston has expansive clay soil.  Clay soil is sensitive to that amount of moisture that it is exposed to and expands and contracts accordingly.  This can wreak havoc on foundations.  High soil against the foundation is also an open invitation to ants and termites.  It also prohibits you from seeing any issues with your foundation before it causes major damage to your home.  The best time to catch these issues is when the builder is still working on the grading of the home before installation of sod and beds.

The following photos are from a new construction final phase inspection.