University of Nebraska at Omaha
additional resources.
303.05. Foundation walls.
All foundation walls shall be maintained plumb and free from open cracks and breaks and shall be kept in such condition so as to prevent the entry of rodents and other pests.
Reasons
The foundation must safely support the entire structure. Minor problems left uncorrected can become major. Major foundation problems can result in collapse of the structure. Three of the most frequent causes of foundation failure result from damage caused at the time of construction, soil problems (settling, sliding, heaving and expanding) and the effects of water. Water entering the foundation through cracks, holes or breaks can freeze and expand, causing damage to the foundation.All conditions that permit entry of rodents or other pests must be corrected.
Things to look for
Bulges in foundation wall
Buckles
Cracks
Holes
Crumbling material
Settlement supports
Ratings
None: No problem
Minor: Includes hairline cracks, loose and flaking mortar and surface deterioration of cement blocks and poured concrete walls. Hairline cracks and other damage apparent on less than 25% of foundation walls.
Major: Includes large horizontal and vertical step cracks, and large areas of missing foundation material. Cracks apparent on more than 25% of foundation walls.
| No problem. | Minor problem. Hairline crack, loose and flaking mortor. Covering less than 25% of the foundation walls. |
| Major problem. Missing parts & lacks a section of foundation. | Major problem. Settling, bulges in foundation wall, crumbling material & holes. |
| Major problem. Settling, bulges in foundation wall, crumbling material & holes. |
| Property scan training |