Tag Archives: settlement

HARDSCAPING SETTLEMENT DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN THERE IS A STRUCTURAL ISSUE

Hardscaping elements—people-made features (such as paths, walls, or patios) used to enhance landscaping efforts—can add some pizazz to a home if done correctly.

However, sometimes mother nature has other plans. 

During a recent inspection in Sedro-Woolley, I noticed settlement at hardscaping elements adjacent to the home’s driveway. In my report, I recommended the settlement be further evaluated and repaired by a qualified masonry contractor. I also added that the issue did not appear to be of any structural concern to the home itself.

If you have questions or comments about hardscaping issues or home inspections in general, tweet me (@AIHomeInspect).

SETTLEMENT MAY MAKE YOU A WORLD TRAVELER (BECAUSE YOU TRIP SO MUCH!)

Settlement issues at outlying walkways do not always equate to structural concerns for homes. In reality, most of the time they don’t. 

However, what settlement issues do often create are tripping hazards. I noticed an example of this during a recent inspection in Ferndale, where I found apparent settlement at an entryway concrete stoop.

I notified the homeowner that this issue could easily lead to an unwary passerby having an unfortunate incident. However, I also assured them that it didn’t appear to be of structural concern to the home itself. 

Do you have questions or comments about home inspections in general? Go “All” in and tweet us (@AIHomeInspect).