Crawlspace Inspections: What Do Inspectors Look For?

When considering a home, we often only focus on its aspects that are visible. But it is often the unseen components of a structure that play the most significant roles. One such area is the crawlspace – it plays a critically important part in the overall health, safety, and efficiency of a home. Crawlspace inspections can tell you a lot about the condition of a house, which is why they are one of the primary steps in our home inspecting procedure.

Our clients are often curious as to why the crawlspace is so important and how we go about inspecting it. So we thought it’d be a great time to break it down in a blog. Let’s discuss!

What Is A Crawlspace?

Keep in mind that not all houses have crawlspaces, so some people might not be familiar with them. For those of you who do know what they are, here’s a quick refresher.

A crawlspace is a narrow, unfinished space beneath a home, typically between the ground and the first floor. Unlike a full basement, crawlspaces are not meant for living or storage, but rather to provide access under the flooring of the home. They usually range from 1 to 3 feet in height — just enough for a person to “crawl” through.

Why Are Crawlspaces Important?

• Structural and Utility Access – As mentioned above, one of the greatest benefits to having a crawlspace is that it provides the homeowner with access to the “underbelly” of the home. Depending on the size and accessibility of the crawlspace, you can generally observe and perform and maintain important components, such as plumbing, electrical, HVAC systems and structural components.

• Moisture and Ventilation Management – Properly constructed crawlspaces help manage moisture and airflow under the house. They act as a buffer between the ground and the home’s flooring, which can prevent issues like mold growth and wood rot.

• Flood Protection – In the case that water does make its way into the building, the crawlspace helps to prevent water from entering the main living space and causing costly damage.

• Energy Efficiency: A well-insulated and sealed crawlspace can improve the energy efficiency of a home, leading to lower utility bills and a more comfortable indoor climate.

How Do We Conduct Crawlspace Inspections?

Now we’re up to speed on how important crawlspaces are. It’s no wonder then that crawlspace inspections are so important!

At Scott Home Services, we have conducted over 66,000 home inspections throughout the Colorado Front Range. Needless to say, our inspectors have seen their fair share of crawlspaces. So when it’s time to get on all fours and make our way under the house, what are we looking for?

1. Moisture and Water Intrusion

Crawlspaces have direct contact with the earth, so naturally moisture and water will want to make their way into the space. During crawlspace inspections, our inspectors are extra vigilant for any standing water, evidence of mold, and even signs of past water intrusion, such as efflorescence (powdery mineral salts that dissolve out of damp masonry). Sump pumps will also be tested for functionality (when accessible).

2. Structural Elements 

One of the benefits to crawlspaces (as stated above) is that our inspectors are generally able to see more of the home’s structural components. This means foundation wall, beams, columns, joists, etc. Any signs of cracking, deterioration, damage or settling will be noted, and we will recommend further evaluation from a structural specialist when necessary.

3. Insulation 

Depending on the age of the home, the crawlspace will generally have a varying level of insulation. For instance, newer homes usually have fully conditioned crawlspaces because they help to increase energy efficiency and reduce moisture concerns. However, in older homes, crawlspace were treated separately from the living space. So they will often have little-to-no insulation. The inspector will assess the condition and placement of the insulation, when present. In the case that the crawlspace is not conditioned, we will usually recommend converting it to a conditioned crawlspace.

4. Ventilation

Ventilation systems are an important aspect of older, unconditioned crawlspaces. These can sometimes be powered systems, but sometimes it is simply vents that allow airflow to and from the exterior. In either case, they are an important way to mitigate moisture and mold growth in the crawlspace. The inspector will make note of condition and functionality of ventilation systems, when present.

5. Vapor Barrier

The vapor barrier is a crucial element in a crawlspace. It provides added protection to the floor system from moisture or dampness that can enter from ground. So our inspectors definitely want to see one these in the crawlspace! The inspector will make note of any damage or defects, as well as missing barriers.

This vapor barrier has certainly seen better days!

6. Pests

Critters such as mice, rats, spiders and insects of all shapes and sizes love to seek refuge in your cozy crawlspace. Your inspector will surely note any signs of pest intrusion, and recommend the necessary steps for remediation. We even offer a specialized pest inspection service for an even more extensive search for the unwanted guests!

7. Electrical, Plumbing and HVAC

Crawlspace access also gives our inspectors a chance to take a closer look at some of the additional components of the building. We can often examine electrical wiring, piping, ductwork, furnaces, and sometimes when present radon mitigation systems. This is also a common place that our associate inspectors will find a sewerline cleanout in order to conduct a sewer scope inspection.

Furnace located in a crawlspace

We hope that this blog has given you a better understanding of crawlspaces – the unsung heroes of our homes. Thanks for reading!

Need a Home Inspection?

If you are based in the Colorado and are in need of any home inspection services, we hope that you will consider Scott Home Services. We have been proudly serving the Front Range with our world class home inspections for over 19 years!

We offer an extensive list of services including standard home inspections, energy services, radon testing, mold testing and much much more. Feel free to visit us online to learn more about us, or contact us to book your services today!