Foundation risk research
Foundation problems are difficult to recognize
Do you see cracks in the house, do doors stick, or does the floor seem to slope? Then you will soon wonder if there is something wrong with the foundation. These signs can have various causes. With a foundation risk assessment, we map this out for you. This provides clarity and lets you know where you stand. We often carry out this assessment in combination with a structural inspection.
This can be particularly valuable when purchasing a home. Especially for homes built before 1970, it is wise to have the foundation risk assessed so that you can avoid unexpected repair costs of tens of thousands of euros.
This is how the foundation risk assessment works
You mainly want clarity
Most people know nothing about foundations. That is understandable, as it is something you normally never deal with. Nevertheless, such a situation can suddenly cause a great deal of uncertainty. If you have doubts about a home's foundation, you primarily want one thing: to know where you stand.
You want to avoid facing high costs later on. At the same time, you do not want to immediately have an extensive and expensive foundation survey carried out if it might not be necessary at all. That is why there is the foundation risk survey. This survey can be conducted in combination with a structural inspection, so that you gain insight into both the condition of the home and the potential foundation risk in a single inspection. Do you only want to have a foundation risk survey carried out? Then please contact us.
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The solution: a foundation risk assessment
The Foundation Risk Assessment (Phase 0) is a non-destructive investigation. This means that no digging, drilling, or breaking is involved. (You can read more about foundation risks and the national approach via NAFO.)
The on-site inspection takes an average of 20 to 30 minutes.
After the investigation, you will receive two documents: the foundation risk report and an explanation of the report. With one of the following conclusions:
- No action needed – there are no signs of foundation problems
- Monitoring recommended – slight signs, long-term inspection advisable
- Further investigation needed (Phase 1 / Phase 2) – there is an increased foundation risk
The price of a foundation risk report
The price of a foundation risk assessment is €249 including VAT. A foundation risk assessment can only be performed in conjunction with a building inspection. For homes up to 250 m², a building inspection costs €489 including VAT. If the home is larger, you pay €0.65 per additional m². Together, this amounts to a total price starting from €738 including VAT.
Frequently asked questions about foundation risk research
Are you unsure about cracks in your home or have you noticed any misalignment? Many homeowners aren't sure what these signs mean and when it's wise to have a foundation inspection performed. Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions about foundation risk assessments and potential foundation problems.
Can a foundation risk assessment be combined with a building inspection?
Yes. The Foundation Risk Assessment (Phase 0) is often carried out in combination with a structural inspection. During the same inspection visit, both the structural condition of the home and the potential foundation risk are assessed.
What is the difference between a foundation risk assessment and a foundation survey?
A foundation risk assessment is an initial risk assessment of the foundation. A full foundation assessment is more comprehensive and is performed when there are clear indications of foundation problems.
When is it wise to have a home foundation survey carried out?
Investigating a house's foundation can be a good idea if you notice cracks in the house, if there appears to be a misalignment, or if you suspect the house is subsiding.
Is a leaning house dangerous?
A leaning house doesn't always have to be immediately dangerous. Many houses sink slightly over the years due to subsidence or changes in the subsurface.
However, leaning can sometimes indicate a problem with the foundation. For example, when:
- the house appears visibly leaning
- floors are no longer level
- doors or windows are becoming increasingly difficult to close
In such a situation, a foundation inspection can help assess whether there is an increased foundation risk.
Which cracks in a house indicate foundation problems?
An inspection isn't legally required, but it is highly recommended. With an NHG mortgage, it may be required if the property has defects. It prevents surprises and provides clarity about the property's condition.
How much does foundation repair cost?
The cost of foundation repair can vary considerably. This depends on several factors, including:
- the type of foundation
- the severity of the problem
- the size of the home
In some cases, the cost is several thousand euros, but for more extensive repairs, it can rise to tens of thousands of euros.
Therefore, many homeowners first choose to have a foundation risk assessment performed. This will provide insight into the potential risk and advice on whether a more extensive foundation assessment is necessary.
How do you recognize that your house is subsiding?
A subsiding home often shows several signs. Common examples include:
- cracks in the home, for example in walls or window frames
- doors or windows that suddenly stick
- floors that appear to be crooked
- a visible tilt of the home
Do you see one or more of these signs? Then an investigation of the home's foundation can help assess whether there is an increased foundation risk.
What are possible causes of cracks in a house?
A building inspection provides clarity about the technical condition of a home. Whether you're buying, selling, or renovating, you want to know exactly what you're getting into. With a Homekeur inspection, you'll know exactly what's going on, what it will cost to repair defects, and how to be well-prepared to get started.
When is foundation research necessary?
A full foundation inspection is usually performed when there are clear indications of foundation problems, such as severe cracks or significant subsidence. In many situations, a foundation risk assessment is performed first. This is an initial foundation inspection that assesses whether a more extensive foundation investigation is necessary. This provides insight into the risk before a comprehensive technical investigation is initiated.
Is het FASO 0 onderzoek hetzelfde als een Quickscan?
The PHASE 0 investigation also includes the quick scan in accordance with the KCAF guidelines, but goes a step further by investigating additional aspects. This creates a more complete and reliable picture of the property.