Crawlspace Inspections

A crawlspace is a shallow and uninhabitable area, usually between the soil and the first floor of the home. Crawlspaces may provide access to the electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems located below the first floor. The following general guidelines are required in new residential construction as of the 21st Century:

• Minimum access opening is 18 inches by 24 inches.
• Minimum access opening if mechanical equipment (i.e. if an HVAC system is located in the crawlspace) is 30 inches by 30 inches.
• Minimum clearance between the soil and joists is 18 inches and 12 inches between the soil and beams.
• Minimum ventilation, every 150 square feet of floor space, requires a one square foot ventilation opening.

Wet Crawlspace

Water control and management of the crawlspace is essential for maintaining a safe and livable home. The most common problem associated with wet crawlspaces is moist conditions can lead to wood destroying fungus (WDO) deteriorating exposed framing. In addition, excessive moisture is a conducive condition that can lead to infestation of wood destroying insects, such as termites. In exceptional cases, water penetration into a crawlspace can lead to the undermining of the foundation. For more information on how to deal with wet crawlspaces, follow the links below.

For more information on how to deal with a wet basement, follow the links below.