Common Foundation Underpinning Blunders Building Owners Make

One of the most essential projects any residential property owner should embark on is underpinning an existing foundation. The way the project is handled can have a significant impact on the building's integrity. Although most people already know that a trained and experienced foundation underpinning contractor is needed for the project, there are several mistakes they make. These issues usually have a significant effect on the entire underpinning project. Here are some blunders homeowners should avoid during a foundation underpinning project.

Failing to hire a professional surveyor

Before your existing foundation is underpinned, it is essential to get it surveyed. Diving straight into underpinning would be a wrong move. When you notice signs that suggest subsidence, it's advisable to hire a structural engineer or surveyor to examine the property. Usually, any subsidence does not necessarily require underpinning. Perhaps you need to fix the drains or get rid of some tree roots that are messing with the integrity of the foundation. You will get a detailed report after the survey that will tell you what's required and if underpinning services are necessary or not.

Requesting the contractor to halt the project

Once your underpinning contractor starts the project, you shouldn't ask them to stop working temporarily. Most homeowners are tempted to do this because of various reasons. Perhaps they hadn't purchased all the required materials and didn't have the money. Or, the temporary accommodation they had is no longer available, and they can't seem to find a solution. If you face such problems, you might want to ask the contractor to stop the project for a while.

An experienced contractor will advise against it, but if you insist, they will have no option but to comply. However, this blunder can cause severe problems for your home. For instance, if they had already started drilling into the foundation, you will carelessly damage the house because of the large gaps that have been created and left unfilled. After some days, the roof and house framework may start shifting and even cave. Dealing with such a problem will be more costly, so prepare adequately before allowing the contractor to underpin your house.

Ignoring the legal aspects

You should never start any construction work before confirming if you need permission from the concerned local authorities. For instance, the underpinning project could easily cause damage to other buildings that are too close to yours. An experienced contractor knows all this, but it's still your responsibility to ensure that all protocols are adhered to. This way, you will avoid costly mistakes or getting sued.

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