Originally Posted By: dharris This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Part 1
I inspected a 8 yr old home that the foundation had apx 3/4 horizontal cracking for apx 4’ on side and 4’ on back wall with apx a 3/8" deflection, with poor drainage in both areas, additionally this area is known for soil problems
I recommended futhur evaluation by a structural engineer
Part 2
Listing agent and Home seller hires local HI [ small town] and local Hi pulls int carpet back
and determines and puts in writing, since slab is not cracked its no problem, that type of cracking is normal due to pouring the foundation in 2 different pours
Originally Posted By: pdacey This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Daniel,
What do you mean by 3/4 horizontal cracking? That the crack was 3/4" wide?
Were there any other signs of settlement inside the house? Cracked drywall?
I'd say (without knowing all of the details) that you based your decision on what you saw in the realm of a "visual inspection". If your comfortable with your decision then it doesn't matter what HI #2 says and if the client takes his word for it.
Originally Posted By: psabados This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Dan
Is that 3/4" wide crack on a corner, 4 feet from the corner? 3/8 inch approximate deflection, I'm guessing the corner is deflecting outwards.
Did you over react? I don't think so. The footer or foundation is what's holding the structure in position. Sounds like the corner is falling away and it hasn't hit the slab yet, it will.
You made a good call. Number 2 could have a problem coming his way in the not to distant future. Especially when that slab does break and corner falls way. Ooops!
Originally Posted By: phinsperger This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I would also agree. As for the drywall, if there were any signs of problems they may have been repaired before the repainting was done. If so they will show up again.
Originally Posted By: Brian A. Goodman This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
I’m with the gang on this one. If seeing a crack that size doesn’t send up an immediate red flag, check your pulse and see if you’re dead. I think #2 is REALLY sticking his neck out.
Originally Posted By: mcraig This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Dan you did the right call. You know we are getting a few HI’s out here making light of issues. I wonder if these guys sleep at night? I can’t speak for everyone around but I have been getting Inspections after other inspectors lately and I am seeing a lot of missed or played down items in homes. I always stand behind what I report I think that is what is keeping me growing in business.
Originally Posted By: jfarsetta This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.
Dan,
Excellent call, IMO. And, dont try and second guess yourself; the signs were all there...
Experience and education tells us that cracks wider than 1/4 " may be problematic. Experience and education tells us that horizontal cracks are the worst kind. Experience and education tells us that lateral displacement is a bad thing. Experience and education tells us that at 8 years, the house may still be moving.
This is a prime example of where the HI knows where to draw the line, as to what is the job of the HI, and delving into the unlicensed practice of professional engineering. If I was standing along side you, I would have handled it the same way. Inspector X treads on thin ice, and made a poor call.
You served your Client. And, as the saying goes, you can lead a horse to water, but cannot make him drink. You inform, they decide. IMO, they decided poorly.
When you're called as an expert witness someday by this Client, in a lawsuit against Inspector X, be sure and bring up your findings, and advice. 
Again, excellent job...
-- Joe Farsetta
Illigitimi Non Carborundum
"Dont let the bastards grind you down..."
