Foundation cracks are commonly discovered during home inspections. So common, I like to say, “Concrete does two things…it gets hard and it cracks.” The question becomes whether the crack is significant enough to warrant further evaluation and possible repair by a qualified contractor. This particular crack, discovered at an Oak Harbor home inspection on Whidbey Island, had characteristics (e.g., size, displacement, and sharp edges) that warranted a second opinion. Most cracks don’t need further evaluation, in fact I’d estimate that I call this out less than 5% of the time for home inspections. Settling and shrinkage cracks are commonplace. And, older homes can have quite large cracks which, if the edges are worn suggest they’re historic and the home has done all of its settling in the past. When in doubt, I’d recommend first having an experienced home inspector further evaluate and advise as to whether a structural contractor or engineer is warranted. Hope this helps!  

All Islands Home Inspections services all of the San Juan Islands, including Orcas Island, San Juan Island, Friday Harbor, Shaw Island, Lopez Island and non-ferry served islands. We also service Anacortes and all of Skagit County, Whatcom County, Whidbey Island and all of Island County.

If you’re looking for a home inspector that’s so thorough and experienced you won’t end up buying the “Money Pit,” then you need Tim Hance of All Islands Home Inspections working for you. Tim Hance is a board certified Master Home Inspector who has personally conducted over 8,000 home inspections. Tim Hance is college educated (University of Washington, B.S. Chemistry, 1996), was a licensed contractor for a decade prior to becoming a home inspector and has extensive experience in real estate development.