Why You Should Always Inspect the Crawlspace of an Off-Grade Home

Purchasing an older off-grade home in Pensacola can be a great investment, but skipping essential inspections—especially in the crawlspace—can lead to costly surprises. In the 1950s, builders in the area began constructing homes on concrete slab foundations, moving away from the once-common off-grade wood subfloor foundations. However, some homes continued to be built with off-grade wood subfloors even after the 1950s due to factors like cost considerations, terrain conditions, high water tables, or challenging soil conditions that made slab construction more difficult or expensive. As a result, many of the homes in the trendy Downtown Pensacola and East Hill areas are older and feature these off-grade foundations. This often-overlooked space beneath the home can conceal serious issues, impacting both the property's long-term value and safety.

Recently, we met with Eric Sauls from Shore Up Foundation at an older home in Downtown Pensacola to investigate some concerning foundation issues. The homeowner noticed cracking tiles and a large hump forming in the middle of the house, clear signs of potential structural problems. Eric walked us through what was happening beneath the home, reinforcing why a thorough crawlspace and subfloor inspection is critical—not just when purchasing a home, but also for ongoing maintenance. Over time, issues like fungus, wood rot, and foundation settling can develop, making regular inspections essential to prevent costly repairs.

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Why a Crawlspace Inspection is Essential

Many investors purchase homes without thoroughly inspecting the crawlspace, only to discover costly repairs down the line. A Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) inspection is essential for uncovering hidden issues, such as:

✅ Termite Damage – Pensacola’s warm, humid climate is ideal for termites, which can cause severe structural harm. If evidence of termites is found, a licensed pest control company may be needed for treatment.

✅ Mildew & Fungus Growth – Excess moisture can lead to health hazards and weaken the home’s foundation. If these issues are present, a crawlspace encapsulation system may be necessary to prevent further damage.

✅ Rotten Wood – Water leaks, humidity, or aging can cause wood to deteriorate, compromising the home’s structural integrity. A contractor should assess the extent of the damage and provide an estimate for necessary repairs.

✅ Improper Plumbing – Uninsulated pipes running beneath the home can freeze and burst in cold weather, leading to costly water damage. Ensuring proper insulation can help prevent plumbing disasters.

A thorough crawlspace inspection can save you thousands in unexpected repairs—don’t skip this critical step before purchasing an investment property!

Skipping these inspections can lead to thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs, making it essential to hire professionals who are willing to crawl under the house and assess its condition.

Signs You May Need a Foundation Inspection

In addition to WDO inspections, we also recommend a foundation inspection if anything looks questionable during a general home inspection. Some warning signs include:

🔹 Uneven or sloping floors
🔹 Cracks in walls, ceilings, or exterior siding
🔹 Doors and windows that don’t close properly
🔹 Gaps between walls and floors or ceilings
🔹 Bouncing or sagging floors

Issues Caused by a Weak Foundation

Ignoring foundation issues can lead to severe consequences, including:

❌ Structural instability – The home may become unsafe to live in.
❌ Higher repair costs – Delaying foundation repairs often results in more expensive fixes.
❌ Reduced property value – A compromised foundation can make it harder to sell the home.
❌ Moisture and mold problems – Poor foundation drainage can allow moisture to seep into the home, leading to mold growth and wood rot.

One of our top pieces of advice to investors is never to skimp on inspections—yet time and time again, we see investors purchasing homes with only a four-point inspection. While a four-point inspection covers the basics (roof, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC), it doesn’t provide a full picture of a home’s condition. Issues like foundation problems, termite damage, and hidden moisture intrusion often go unnoticed without a comprehensive home inspection. A thorough inspection upfront can save thousands in unexpected repairs down the road! Don't take shortcuts—invest wisely. Shore Up Foundation offers free foundation estimates. If you're unsure about your home's foundation or crawlspace, we highly recommend reaching out to them for an expert evaluation.

If you’re considering buying an older off-grade home in Pensacola, don’t skip comprehensive inspections, including a thorough inspection under your home. Identifying problems early can save you from major headaches and expensive repairs down the road. Thinking about purchasing a rental property or an older home? We’re here to help! Reach out to Realty Masters of FL for expert guidance.