Techniques for Addressing Soil Heave Issues

Techniques for Addressing Soil Heave Issues

Case studies highlighting successful residential foundation repair projects involving expansive clay

Identifying the signs and symptoms of soil heave in residential properties


Soil heave, often caused by the expansion of clay soils when they absorb water, can pose significant problems for residential properties. Uneven floors indicate potential structural problems that may need foundation repair service foundation repair service areas property. Identifying the signs and symptoms early on is crucial for mitigating damage and ensuring the structural integrity of homes. Here are some key indicators that homeowners should be aware of:

1. **Cracks in Walls and Foundations**: One of the most apparent signs of soil heave is the appearance of cracks in the walls, both interior and exterior. These cracks can vary in size but are usually vertical and may widen over time. Similarly, the foundation might show signs of shifting or cracking, indicating that the soil beneath is expanding.

2. **Uneven Floors**: Soil heave can cause the ground beneath a home to become uneven, leading to sloping or uneven floors. Homeowners might notice doors that no longer close properly or gaps appearing between the floor and the wall.

3. **Sticking Windows and Doors**: As the foundation shifts due to soil expansion, windows and doors may begin to stick or become difficult to open and close. This is a common symptom because the frame of the house is being distorted by the movement beneath it.

4. **Cracks in Driveways and Sidewalks**: Externally, soil heave can cause cracks in driveways, sidewalks, and patios. These cracks are often irregular and can worsen over time, especially after periods of heavy rain.

5. **Bowing or Bulging Walls**: In more severe cases, walls may start to bow or bulge outward. This is a clear sign that the soil beneath is exerting significant pressure on the structure.

6. **Water Pooling Around the Foundation**: If soil heave is causing the ground to become uneven, water may start to pool around the foundation. This can exacerbate the problem by further saturating the soil and leading to more expansion.

7. **Changes in Landscaping**: Homeowners might notice that plants and trees near the house are tilting or showing signs of distress. This can be an indirect indicator that the soil beneath is moving.

Addressing soil heave promptly is essential to prevent further damage. Homeowners should consult with a professional to assess the situation and recommend appropriate solutions, which may include drainage improvements, soil stabilization techniques, or foundation repairs. Early detection and intervention can save both time and money in the long run, preserving the safety and value of the property.

Understanding the causes and factors contributing to soil heave


Understanding the causes and factors contributing to soil heave is crucial for developing effective techniques to address soil heave issues. Soil heave, also known as frost heave or simply heave, occurs when soil expands due to the freezing of water within it, leading to significant disruptions in structures built on or within the soil. Several primary factors contribute to this phenomenon, and understanding these can help in mitigating its effects.

One of the main causes of soil heave is the presence of water in the soil. When temperatures drop below freezing, the water in the soil starts to freeze and expand. This expansion puts pressure on the surrounding soil particles, causing them to move apart and the soil volume to increase. The extent of heave is directly influenced by the amount of water present in the soil; wetter soils are more susceptible to heave than drier ones.

The type of soil also plays a critical role in the occurrence of soil heave. Fine-grained soils, such as clays and silts, are particularly prone to heave because they have a higher capacity to retain water. These soils have smaller particles that allow water to infiltrate and freeze more readily. In contrast, coarse-grained soils like sands and gravels are less susceptible to heave due to their larger particle size and lower water retention capacity.

Temperature fluctuations are another significant factor. Rapid and repeated freezing and thawing cycles can exacerbate soil heave. When soil freezes and then thaws, the water within it expands and contracts, leading to consistent movement and potential damage to structures above or within the soil. Regions with cold climates and frequent freeze-thaw cycles are more prone to soil heave problems.

The depth of the frost line, or the maximum depth at which the ground freezes in winter, is also a critical consideration. In areas with deep frost lines, soil heave can affect structures more profoundly. Engineers and builders must consider the local frost line depth when designing foundations and other structures to ensure they are built deep enough to avoid the heave zone.

Lastly, human activities can inadvertently contribute to soil heave. Activities such as improper drainage, irrigation practices, and construction can alter the natural water balance in the soil, leading to increased moisture content and heightened susceptibility to heave.

In conclusion, understanding the causes and factors contributing to soil heave-including water content, soil type, temperature fluctuations, frost line depth, and human activities-is essential for developing effective techniques to address soil heave issues. By recognizing these factors, engineers and builders can implement appropriate measures to mitigate the risks associated with soil heave, ensuring the stability and longevity of structures built on or within the soil.

Assessing the extent of soil heave damage in residential foundations


When it comes to understanding and addressing soil heave issues in residential foundations, one of the critical steps is assessing the extent of the damage caused by soil heave. This process is essential because it helps homeowners and professionals determine the severity of the problem and plan appropriate remedial actions. Soil heave, the upward movement of soil due to the expansion of water-saturated clays, can lead to significant structural issues if not addressed promptly.

To begin with, assessing soil heave damage requires a thorough inspection of the foundation. This typically involves a visual examination by a qualified professional, such as a structural engineer or a geotechnical expert. They will look for common signs of heave, such as cracks in the walls, uneven floors, doors and windows that stick, and gaps between the foundation and the structure above. These visible indicators are often the first clues that soil heave may be occurring.

Beyond visual inspection, more detailed assessments may be necessary. This can include soil sampling and testing to determine the type of soil and its moisture content. Soil tests can reveal the presence of expansive clays, which are a common culprit behind heave issues. Additionally, monitoring equipment such as inclinometers or piezometers may be installed to measure soil movement and water pressure over time, providing valuable data on the extent and progression of heave.

Another crucial aspect of assessing soil heave damage is evaluating the structural integrity of the foundation. This might involve non-destructive testing methods like ground-penetrating radar (GPR) or infrared thermography to detect hidden cracks or weaknesses. In some cases, core samples may be taken from the foundation to assess the depth and nature of the damage.

Once the extent of the soil heave damage is understood, appropriate remediation techniques can be planned. These might include soil stabilization methods, such as chemical treatment or moisture barriers, to prevent further expansion. In more severe cases, structural repairs such as underpinning or piering may be necessary to stabilize the foundation and prevent further damage.

In conclusion, assessing the extent of soil heave damage in residential foundations is a multifaceted process that requires careful inspection, soil testing, and structural evaluation. By understanding the severity of the issue, homeowners and professionals can implement effective solutions to mitigate soil heave and protect the integrity of the foundation. This proactive approach not only preserves the value of the property but also ensures the safety and stability of the home for years to come.

Overview of common techniques for addressing soil heave issues


Certainly! Here's a short essay on the overview of common techniques for addressing soil heave issues:

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Soil heave, the upward movement of soil due to moisture expansion or frost action, poses significant challenges to construction projects and infrastructure stability. Addressing soil heave effectively requires a multifaceted approach, incorporating various techniques tailored to specific soil conditions and environmental factors. Here's an overview of common techniques used to mitigate soil heave issues:

1. **Soil Stabilization**: This technique involves modifying the soil's properties to enhance its stability and reduce susceptibility to heave. Methods include adding chemicals like lime or cement to bind soil particles, or using mechanical compaction to densify the soil. Stabilization aims to create a more uniform and stable soil profile, minimizing heave potential.

2. **Drainage Improvement**: Effective drainage is crucial in managing soil moisture levels, a primary cause of heave. Installing drainage systems such as french drains, perforated pipes, or permeable surfaces allows excess water to dissipate, reducing hydrostatic pressure and soil saturation. Proper grading and slope design also facilitate surface water runoff, preventing water accumulation around foundations.

3. **Moisture Barriers**: In areas prone to frost heave, installing moisture barriers can prevent water from infiltrating the soil and freezing. These barriers, often made of geosynthetic materials like polyethylene or bentonite, are placed beneath slabs or pavements to create a barrier against moisture migration. This technique is particularly effective in cold regions where freeze-thaw cycles are prevalent.

4. **Foundation Design Modifications**: Adjusting foundation design to accommodate potential soil movement is a proactive approach. Techniques such as using deeper footings, incorporating flexible foundation systems like raft or mat foundations, or employing pier and beam construction can distribute loads more evenly and accommodate soil expansion without compromising structural integrity.

5. **Vegetation Management**: Vegetation, particularly tree roots, can exacerbate soil heave by extracting moisture and causing soil desiccation. Managing vegetation, especially near structures, involves selective planting of species with non-invasive root systems and maintaining adequate spacing to minimize moisture extraction. Regular monitoring and maintenance of vegetation are essential to prevent heave-related issues.

6. **Geotextiles and Geogrids**: These synthetic materials provide reinforcement and stabilization to soil layers. Geotextiles are permeable fabrics that separate soil layers, while geogrids are mesh-like structures that enhance soil strength and stability. Incorporating these materials into soil profiles can mitigate heave by improving load distribution and reducing soil movement.

In conclusion, addressing soil heave requires a comprehensive understanding of soil behavior, environmental conditions, and engineering principles. By employing a combination of soil stabilization, drainage improvement, moisture barriers, foundation design modifications, vegetation management, and geosynthetic reinforcements, engineers and construction professionals can effectively mitigate soil heave issues, ensuring the stability and longevity of built structures. Each technique offers unique advantages and should be selected based on site-specific conditions and project requirements to achieve optimal results.

Soil stabilization methods to mitigate soil heave effects


Soil heave, the upward movement of soil due to swelling or frost action, can significantly impact the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure. To address this challenge, various soil stabilization methods have been developed to mitigate soil heave effects. These techniques aim to enhance soil properties, reduce its susceptibility to swelling, and ensure long-term stability.

One common method is chemical stabilization, which involves adding chemicals to the soil to alter its properties. Lime and cement are frequently used agents. Lime reacts with clay minerals to form stable compounds, reducing the soil's plasticity and swelling potential. Cement, on the other hand, binds soil particles together, creating a stronger, more cohesive matrix that is less prone to heave. These chemical treatments can be applied through mixing, injection, or surface application, depending on the specific site conditions and requirements.

Another effective technique is mechanical stabilization, which includes methods like compaction and reinforcement. Compaction involves increasing the soil's density by applying mechanical force, which reduces pore space and minimizes the potential for water infiltration and subsequent swelling. Reinforcement techniques, such as the addition of geosynthetic materials like geogrids or geotextiles, help distribute loads more evenly across the soil, reducing the impact of heave on structures above.

Thermal stabilization is also employed in regions prone to frost heave. This method involves controlling the soil temperature to prevent freezing. Insulating layers, such as polystyrene boards, can be placed beneath foundations to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent the formation of ice lenses. Additionally, ground heating systems can be installed to warm the soil, ensuring it remains unfrozen throughout the winter months.

Biological stabilization leverages natural processes to enhance soil stability. This can include the use of vegetation to bind soil particles together through root systems, which not only improves soil structure but also reduces erosion and water infiltration. Certain types of bacteria and microorganisms can also be introduced to the soil to promote the formation of stable aggregates, further mitigating heave effects.

In summary, soil stabilization methods to mitigate soil heave effects are diverse and can be tailored to specific site conditions and project requirements. By employing chemical, mechanical, thermal, and biological techniques, engineers and geotechnical professionals can effectively address soil heave issues, ensuring the longevity and safety of structures built on expansive or frost-susceptible soils.

Drainage system improvements to prevent soil saturation and heave


Certainly!

When it comes to addressing soil heave issues, one of the most effective strategies involves making improvements to the drainage system. Soil heave, which occurs when soil expands due to moisture absorption, can lead to significant structural problems for buildings and infrastructure. By enhancing the drainage system, we can prevent soil saturation, thereby mitigating the risk of heave.

Firstly, it's important to understand that proper drainage ensures excess water is efficiently diverted away from the foundation of structures. This can be achieved through the installation of French drains, which are trenches filled with gravel or rock that channel water away from the building's base. These drains are typically connected to a sump pump system that expels water far from the structure, ensuring the soil remains dry.

Another effective method is the use of permeable pavements. Unlike traditional concrete, permeable pavements allow water to seep through, reducing surface runoff and facilitating better groundwater recharge. This not only helps in preventing soil saturation but also reduces the likelihood of heave.

Additionally, grading the land properly is crucial. Ensuring that the ground slopes away from the building helps in directing water flow away from the foundation. This simple yet effective measure can significantly reduce the amount of water that accumulates around the structure.

Incorporating rain gardens and bioswales into the landscape design is another innovative approach. These features are designed to capture and filter rainwater, allowing it to infiltrate the ground slowly. This reduces the immediate impact of heavy rainfall on the soil and helps maintain a balanced moisture level.

Lastly, regular maintenance of the drainage system is essential. Clogged gutters, broken pipes, and compacted soil can all impede the effectiveness of a drainage system. Routine checks and cleaning can prevent these issues from arising, ensuring the system continues to function optimally.

In conclusion, drainage system improvements play a vital role in preventing soil saturation and subsequent heave. By implementing strategies such as French drains, permeable pavements, proper grading, rain gardens, and consistent maintenance, we can create a more stable environment for structures, safeguarding them against the detrimental effects of soil heave.

Structural repairs and reinforcements for residential foundations affected by soil heave


When it comes to maintaining the integrity of residential foundations, addressing soil heave is crucial. Soil heave, which is the upward movement of the ground due to the expansion of soil, can cause significant damage to the structural integrity of homes. To mitigate these issues, structural repairs and reinforcements are often necessary. Techniques for addressing soil heave involve a combination of assessment, repair, and ongoing maintenance to ensure the longevity and stability of the foundation.

Firstly, a thorough assessment of the affected area is essential. This involves identifying the extent of the soil heave and understanding the underlying causes, such as changes in moisture content or the presence of expansive soils. Professional engineers or geotechnical experts typically conduct this assessment to determine the best course of action.

Once the assessment is complete, repairs can begin. Common techniques include underpinning, where additional support is added beneath the foundation to stabilize it. This can be done through methods like installing helical piers or push piers, which extend deep into the stable soil layers below the heave-affected zone. Another approach is slab jacking, where a mixture of materials is injected beneath the foundation to lift and level it.

Reinforcements are also critical in preventing future issues. This might involve installing drainage systems to manage water around the foundation, thus reducing the likelihood of soil expansion. Additionally, adding moisture barriers can help maintain consistent soil conditions, minimizing the risk of heave.

In some cases, modifications to the landscaping or the addition of retaining walls may be necessary to further protect the foundation. Regular monitoring and maintenance are also vital, as soil conditions can change over time. Homeowners should be vigilant about signs of distress, such as cracks in walls or floors, and seek professional advice if they notice any issues.

In conclusion, addressing soil heave in residential foundations requires a comprehensive approach that includes assessment, targeted repairs, and ongoing reinforcement strategies. By taking these steps, homeowners can protect their investments and ensure the structural integrity of their homes for years to come.



 

Soil with broken rock fragments overlying bedrock, Sandside Bay, Caithness, Scotland
Soil profile with bedrock labeled R

In geology, bedrock is solid rock that lies under loose material (regolith) within the crust of Earth or another terrestrial planet.

Definition

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Bedrock is the solid rock that underlies looser surface material.[1] An exposed portion of bedrock is often called an outcrop.[2] The various kinds of broken and weathered rock material, such as soil and subsoil, that may overlie the bedrock are known as regolith.[3][4]

Engineering geology

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The surface of the bedrock beneath the soil cover (regolith) is also known as rockhead in engineering geology,[5][6] and its identification by digging, drilling or geophysical methods is an important task in most civil engineering projects. Superficial deposits can be very thick, such that the bedrock lies hundreds of meters below the surface.[7]

Weathering of bedrock

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Exposed bedrock experiences weathering, which may be physical or chemical, and which alters the structure of the rock to leave it susceptible to erosion. Bedrock may also experience subsurface weathering at its upper boundary, forming saprolite.[8]

Geologic map

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A geologic map of an area will usually show the distribution of differing bedrock types, rock that would be exposed at the surface if all soil or other superficial deposits were removed. Where superficial deposits are so thick that the underlying bedrock cannot be reliably mapped, the superficial deposits will be mapped instead (for example, as alluvium).[9]

See also

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  • icon Geology portal
  • icon Geography portal
  • Maps portal
  • Minerals portal

References

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  1. ^ Jackson, Julia A., ed. (1997). "Bedrock". Glossary of geology (4th ed.). Alexandria, Virginia: American Geological Institute. ISBN 0922152349.
  2. ^ Jackson 1997, "Outcrop".
  3. ^ Jackson 1997, "Regolith".
  4. ^ Allaby, Michael (2013). "Regolith". A dictionary of geology and earth sciences (4th ed.). Oxford: Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780199653065.
  5. ^ Price, David George (2009). "The Basis of Engineering Geology". In de Freitas, Michael H. (ed.). Engineering Geology: Principles and Practice. Springer. p. 16. ISBN 978-3540292494.
  6. ^ McLean, A.C.; Gribble, C.D. (9 September 1985). Geology for Civil Engineers (Second ed.). CRC Press. p. 113. ISBN 978-0419160007.
  7. ^ Swinford, E. Mac (2004). "What the glaciers left behind  – the drift-thickness map of Ohio" (PDF). Ohio Geology. No. 1. Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Geological Survey. pp. 1, 3–5. Archived (PDF) from the original on 2 October 2012. Retrieved 12 September 2012.
  8. ^ Lidmar-Bergström, Karna; Olsson, Siv; Olvmo, Mats (January 1997). "Palaeosurfaces and associated saprolites in southern Sweden". Geological Society, London, Special Publications. 120 (1): 95–124. Bibcode:1997GSLSP.120...95L. doi:10.1144/GSL.SP.1997.120.01.07. S2CID 129229906. Retrieved 21 April 2010.
  9. ^ "Digital Geology – Bedrock geology theme". British Geological Survey. Archived from the original on 13 December 2009. Retrieved 12 November 2009.

Further reading

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  • Rafferty, John P. "Bedrock". Encyclopædia Britannica. Archived from the original on 29 July 2019. Retrieved 1 April 2019.
  • Harris, Clay (2013). "Bedrock". In Lerner, K. Lee; Lerner, Brenda Wilmoth (eds.). The Gale Encyclopedia of Science. Vol. 1 (5th ed.). Farmington Hills, MI: Cengage Gale. pp. 515–516.
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  • Media related to Bedrock at Wikimedia Commons

 

A disaster inspector at work in the United States assessing tornado damage to a house

A home inspection is a limited, non-invasive examination of the condition of a home, often in connection with the sale of that home. Home inspections are usually conducted by a home inspector who has the training and certifications to perform such inspections. The inspector prepares and delivers to the client a written report of findings. In general, home inspectors recommend that potential purchasers join them during their onsite visits to provide context for the comments in their written reports. The client then uses the knowledge gained to make informed decisions about their pending real estate purchase. The home inspector describes the condition of the home at the time of inspection but does not guarantee future condition, efficiency, or life expectancy of systems or components.

Sometimes confused with a real estate appraiser, a home inspector determines the condition of a structure, whereas an appraiser determines the value of a property. In the United States, although not all states or municipalities regulate home inspectors, there are various professional associations for home inspectors that provide education, training, and networking opportunities. A professional home inspection is an examination of the current condition of a house. It is not an inspection to verify compliance with appropriate codes; building inspection is a term often used for building code compliance inspections in the United States. A similar but more complicated inspection of commercial buildings is a property condition assessment. Home inspections identify problems but building diagnostics identifies solutions to the found problems and their predicted outcomes. A property inspection is a detailed visual documentation of a property's structures, design, and fixtures. Property Inspection provides a buyer, renter, or other information consumer with valuable insight into the property's conditions prior to purchase. House-hunting can be a difficult task especially when you can't seem to find one that you like. The best way to get things done is to ensure that there is a property inspection before buying a property.

North America

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In Canada and the United States, a contract to purchase a house may include a contingency that the contract is not valid until the buyer, through a home inspector or other agents, has had an opportunity to verify the condition of the property. In many states and provinces, home inspectors are required to be licensed, but in some states, the profession is not regulated. Typical requirements for obtaining a license are the completion of an approved training course and/or a successful examination by the state's licensing board. Several states and provinces also require inspectors to periodically obtain continuing education credits in order to renew their licenses.[citation needed] Unless specifically advertised as part of the home inspection, items often needed to satisfy mortgage or tile requirements such as termite ("pest") inspections must be obtained separately from licensed and regulated companies.

In May 2001, Massachusetts became the first state to recognize the potential conflict of interest when real estate agents selling a home also refer or recommend the home inspector to the potential buyer.[citation needed] As a result, the real estate licensing law in Massachusetts was amended[1][non-primary source needed] to prohibit listing real estate agents from directly referring home inspectors. The law also prohibits listing agents from giving out a "short" name list of inspectors. The only list that can be given out is the complete list of all licensed home inspectors in the state.

In September 2018, the California state legislature passed Senate Bill 721 (SB 721),[2] which requires buildings with specific conditions, such as having exterior elevated structures, to undergo inspections by licensed professionals. These inspections must be conducted by qualified individuals, such as structural engineering firms,[3] and a detailed report must be issued. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in penalties for property owners.

Ancillary services such as inspections for wood destroying insects, radon testing, septic tank inspections, water quality, mold, (or excessive moisture which may lead to mold), and private well inspections are sometimes part of home inspector's services if duly qualified.

In many provinces and states, home inspection standards are developed and enforced by professional associations, such as, worldwide, the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI); in the United States, the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), and the National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI)(No Longer active 10/2017); and, in Canada, the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI), the Professional Home & Property Inspectors of Canada (PHPIC) and the National Home Inspector Certification Council (NHICC).

Currently, more than thirty U.S. states regulate the home inspection industry in some form.

Canada saw a deviation from this model when in 2016 an association-independent home inspection standard was completed. This was developed in partnership with industry professionals, consumer advocates, and technical experts, by the Canadian Standards Association. The CAN/CSA A770-16 Home Inspection Standard was funded by three provincial governments with the intent to be the unifying standard for home inspections carried out within Canada. It is the only home inspection standard that has been endorsed by the Standards Council of Canada.

In Canada, there are provincial associations which focus on provincial differences that affect their members and consumers. Ontario has the largest population of home inspectors which was estimated in 2013 as part of a government survey at being around 1500.[4]

To date, Ontario Association of Certified Home Inspectors is the only association which has mandated that its members migrate to the CAN/CSA A770-16 Home Inspection Standard, with a date of migration set as February 28, 2020. Other national and provincial associations have set it as an option to be added to other supported standards.

In Canada, only Alberta and British Columbia have implemented government regulation for the home inspection profession. The province of Ontario has proceeded through the process, with the passage of regulatory procedure culminating in the Home Inspection Act, 2017 to license Home Inspectors in that province. It has received royal assent but is still awaiting the development of regulations and proclamation to become law.

In Ontario, there are two provincial Associations, OAHI (the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors) and OntarioACHI (the Ontario Association of Certified Home Inspectors). Both claim to be the largest association in the province. OAHI, formed by a private member's Bill in the Provincial Assembly, has the right in law to award the R.H.I. (Registered Home Inspector) designation to anyone on its membership register. The R.H.I. designation, however, is a reserved designation, overseen by OAHI under the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors Act, 1994. This Act allows OAHI to award members who have passed and maintained strict criteria set out in their membership bylaws and who operate within Ontario. Similarly, OntarioACHI requires equally high standards for the award of their certification, the Canadian-Certified Home Inspector (CCHI) designation. To confuse things, Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI) own the copyright to the terms Registered Home Inspector and RHI. Outside of Ontario, OAHI Members cannot use the terms without being qualified by CAHPI.

The proclamation of the Home Inspection Act, 2017, requires the dissolution of the Ontario Association of Home Inspectors Act, 1994, which will remove the right to title in Ontario of the RHI at the same time removing consumer confusion about the criteria for its award across Canada.

United Kingdom

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A home inspector in the United Kingdom (or more precisely in England and Wales), was an inspector certified to carry out the Home Condition Reports that it was originally anticipated would be included in the Home Information Pack.

Home inspectors were required to complete the ABBE Diploma in Home Inspection to show they met the standards set out for NVQ/VRQ competency-based assessment (Level 4). The government had suggested that between 7,500 and 8,000 qualified and licensed home inspectors would be needed to meet the annual demand of nearly 2,000,000 Home Information Packs. In the event, many more than this entered training, resulting in a massive oversupply of potential inspectors.

With the cancellation of Home Information Packs by the coalition Government in 2010, the role of the home inspector in the United Kingdom became permanently redundant.

Inspections of the home, as part of a real estate transaction, are still generally carried out in the UK in the same manner as they had been for years before the Home Condition Report process. Home Inspections are more detailed than those currently offered in North America. They are generally performed by a chartered member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

India

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The concept of home inspection in India is in its infancy. There has been a proliferation of companies that have started offering the service, predominantly in Tier-1 cities such as Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, Mumbai, etc. To help bring about a broader understanding among the general public and market the concept, a few home inspection companies have come together and formed the Home Inspection Association of India.[5]

After RERA came into effect, the efficacy and potency of home inspection companies has increased tremendously. The majority of homeowners and potential home buyers do not know what home inspection is or that such a service exists.

The way that home inspection is different in India[6] than in North America or United Kingdom is the lack of a government authorised licensing authority. Apart from the fact that houses in India are predominantly built with kiln baked bricks, concrete blocks or even just concrete walls (predominantly in high rise apartments) this means the tests conducted are vastly different. Most home inspection companies conduct non-destructive testing of the property, in some cases based on customer requirement, tests that require core-cutting are also performed.

The majority of homeowners are not aware of the concept of home inspection in India. The other issue is that the balance of power is highly tilted toward the builder; this means the home buyers are stepping on their proverbial toes, because in most cases, the home is the single most expensive purchase in their lifetime, and the homeowners do not want to come across as antagonising the builders.

Home inspection standards and exclusions

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Some home inspectors and home inspection regulatory bodies maintain various standards related to the trade. Some inspection companies offer 90-day limited warranties to protect clients from unexpected mechanical and structural failures; otherwise, inspectors are not responsible for future failures.[a] A general inspection standard for buildings other than residential homes can be found at the National Academy of Building Inspection Engineers.

Many inspectors may also offer ancillary services such as inspecting pools, sprinkler systems, checking radon levels, and inspecting for wood-destroying organisms. The CAN/CSA-A770-16 standard allows this (in-fact it demands swimming pool safety inspections as a requirement) and also mandates that the inspector be properly qualified to offer these. Other standards are silent on this.

Types of inspections

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Home buyers and home sellers inspections

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Home inspections are often used by prospective purchasers of the house in question, in order to evaluate the condition of the house prior to the purchase. Similarly, a home seller can elect to have an inspection on their property and report the results of that inspection to the prospective buyer.

Foreclosure inspection

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Recently foreclosed properties may require home inspections.

Four point inspection

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An inspection of the house's roof, HVAC, and electrical and plumbing systems is often known as a "four-point inspection", which insurance companies may require as a condition for homeowner's insurance.

Disaster inspection

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Home inspections may occur after a disaster has struck the house. A disaster examination, unlike a standard house inspection, concentrates on damage rather than the quality of everything visible and accessible from the roof to the basement.

Inspectors go to people's homes or work places who have asked for FEMA disaster aid.

Section 8 inspection

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In the United States, the federal and state governments provide housing subsidies to low-income people through the Section 8 program. The government expects that the housing will be "fit for habitation" so a Section 8 inspection identifies compliance with HUD's Housing Quality Standards (HQS).

Pre-delivery inspection

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An inspection may occur in a purchased house prior to the deal's closure, in what is known as a "pre-delivery" inspection.

Structural inspection

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The house's structure may also be inspected. When performing a structural inspection, the inspector will look for a variety of distress indications that may result in repair or further evaluation recommendations.

In the state of New York, only a licensed professional engineer or a registered architect can render professional opinions as to the sufficiency structural elements of a home or building.[11] Municipal building officials can also make this determination, but they are not performing home inspections at the time they are rendering this opinion. Municipal officials are also not required to look out for the best interest of the buyer. Some other states may have similar provisions in their licensing laws. Someone who is not a licensed professional engineer or a registered architect can describe the condition of structural elements (cracked framing, sagged beams/roof, severe rot or insect damage, etc.), but are not permitted to render a professional opinion as to how the condition has affected the structural soundness of the building.

Various systems of the house, including plumbing and HVAC, may also be inspected.[12]

Thermal imaging Inspection

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A thermal imaging inspection using an infrared camera can provide inspectors with information on home energy loss, heat gain/loss through the exterior walls and roof, moisture leaks, and improper electrical system conditions that are typically not visible to the naked eye. Thermal imaging is not considered part of a General Home Inspection because it exceeds the scope of inspection Standards of Practice.

Pool and spa inspection

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Inspection of swimming pools and spas is not considered part of a General Home Inspection because their inspection exceeds the scope of inspection Standards of Practice. However, some home inspectors are also certified to inspect pools and spas and offer this as an ancillary service.[13]

Tree health inspection

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Inspection of trees on the property is not considered part of a General Home Inspection because their inspection exceeds the scope of inspection Standards of Practice. This type of inspection is typically performed by a Certified Arborist and assesses the safety and condition of the trees on a property before the sales agreement is executed.[14]

Property inspection report for immigration

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The UKVI (United Kingdom Visa and Immigration) issued guidance on the necessity of ensuring that properties must meet guidelines so that visa applicants can be housed in properties which meet environmental and health standards. Part X of the Housing Act 1985 provides the legislative grounding for the reports - primarily to ensure that a property is not currently overcrowded, that the inclusion of further individuals as a result of successful visa applications - whether spouse visa, dependent visa, indefinite leave to remain or visitor visa, can house the applicants without the property becoming overcrowded. Reports are typically prepared by environmental assessors or qualified solicitors in accordance with HHSRS (Housing Health and Safety Rating Scheme). Property inspection reports are typically standard and breakdown the legal requirements.

Pre-Listing Home Inspection

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A pre-listing inspection focuses on all major systems and components of the house including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, siding, doors, windows, roof and structure. It's a full home inspection for the seller to better understand the condition of their home prior to the buyer's own inspection.

See also

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  • List of real estate topics
  • Real estate appraisal

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ A general list of exclusions include but are not limited to: code or zoning violations, permit research, property measurements or surveys, boundaries, easements or right of way, conditions of title, proximity to environmental hazards, noise interference, soil or geological conditions, well water systems or water quality, underground sewer lines, waste disposal systems, buried piping, cisterns, underground water tanks and sprinkler systems. A complete list of standards and procedures for home inspections can be found at NAHI,[7] ASHI,[8] InterNACHI,[9] or IHINA[10] websites.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "General Laws: CHAPTER 112, Section 87YY1/2". Malegislature.gov. Archived from the original on 2012-04-27. Retrieved 2012-05-29.
  2. ^ "SB 721- CHAPTERED". leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. Retrieved 2025-02-13.
  3. ^ "SB721 Inspection California | DRBalcony". 2024-09-12. Retrieved 2025-02-13.
  4. ^ http://www.ontariocanada.com/registry/showAttachment.do?postingId=14645&attachmentId=22811 Archived 2017-06-27 at the Wayback Machine [bare URL PDF]
  5. ^ "Home Inspection Association of India". Archived from the original on 2019-09-07. Retrieved 2019-08-30.
  6. ^ "End-to-End Expert Property Inspection Services". Archived from the original on 2022-08-26. Retrieved 2022-08-26.
  7. ^ "NAHI". Archived from the original on 1998-01-29. Retrieved 2011-02-05.
  8. ^ "ASHI". Archived from the original on 2008-05-09. Retrieved 2009-12-11.
  9. ^ "InterNACHI". Archived from the original on 2010-08-30. Retrieved 2010-08-27.
  10. ^ "IHINA". Archived from the original on 2012-01-07. Retrieved 2012-02-09.
  11. ^ "NYS Professional Engineering & Land Surveying:Laws, Rules & Regulations:Article 145". www.op.nysed.gov. Archived from the original on 2018-02-27. Retrieved 2018-04-04.
  12. ^ "Material Defects & Useful Remaining Life of Home Systems". Archived from the original on 2019-02-02. Retrieved 2019-02-01.
  13. ^ "InterNACHI's Standards of Practice for Inspecting Pools & Spas - InterNACHI". www.nachi.org. Archived from the original on 2019-03-21. Retrieved 2019-04-09.
  14. ^ "Property Inspection Report | From £80". Property Inspection Report - Immigration & Visa. Archived from the original on 2022-05-19. Retrieved 2022-05-12.

 

 

Hoffman Estates is located in Illinois
Hoffman Estates
Hoffman Estates
 
Hoffman Estates is located in the United States
Hoffman Estates
Hoffman Estates
 
Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Village
Hoffman Estates scenery
Hoffman Estates scenery
Flag of Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Official seal of Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Motto: 
"Growing to Greatness"
Location of Hoffman Estates in Cook County, Illinois
Location of Hoffman Estates in Cook County, Illinois
Hoffman Estates is located in Chicago metropolitan area
Hoffman Estates
Hoffman Estates
 

Coordinates: 42°03′50″N 88°08′49″W / 42.06389°N 88.14694°W / 42.06389; -88.14694CountryUnited StatesStateIllinoisCountiesCookTownshipsSchaumburg, Palatine, Hanover, BarringtonIncorporated1959 (village)Government

 

 • MayorWilliam D. McLeod[citation needed] • Village ManagerEric J. Palm[citation needed]Area

[1]
 • Total

21.25 sq mi (55.03 km2) • Land21.07 sq mi (54.56 km2) • Water0.18 sq mi (0.47 km2)  0.86%Elevation

[2]

824 ft (251 m)Population

 (2020)
 • Total

52,530 • Density2,493.71/sq mi (962.82/km2)Zip Code

60169, 60010, 60192

Area code(s)847 / 224FIPS code17-35411GNIS feature ID2398519[2]Websitewww.hoffmanestates.org

Hoffman Estates is a village in Cook County, Illinois, United States. It is a suburb of Chicago. Per the 2020 census, the population was 52,530.[3]

The village previously served as the headquarters for Sears and is one of the American headquarters for Mori Seiki. Now Arena, home of the Windy City Bulls of the NBA G League is part of the village. Between 2006 and 2009, the village hosted the Heartland International Tattoo, one of the largest music and dance festivals of its kind in the Midwest.

History

[edit]
Sunderlage Farm Smokehouse[4](National Register of Historic Places) in Hoffman Estates

Prior to the 1940s, German settlers moved into the area west of Roselle Road and north of Golf Road, then known as Wildcat Grove. The area was sparsely populated until farmers purchased land in the area in the 1940s.

In 1954, Sam and Jack Hoffman, owners of a father-son owned construction company, bought 160 acres of land in the area.[5] The pair constructed homes and began the development of the region which now bears their name. As residents moved in, they voted to incorporate the area, and the Village of Hoffman Estates was incorporated on September 23, 1959.[6][5][7] In 1973, six former town officials, including mayors Edward F. Pinger (1959−1965) and Roy L. Jenkins (1965−1969) were indicted on bribery and tax charges.[8]

Once the Northwest Tollway opened, Schaumburg Township became more attractive to Chicago commuters. In the early 1960s, land annexations north of the tollway and in other neighboring regions more than doubled Hoffman Estates' land area.[9]

The opening of the Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg to the east in 1971 made the area a major business center. An attempt to change the name of the village to East Barrington, among other names, was made in the early 1980s but failed upon a residential vote.[10]

In the 1990s, the Prairie Stone Business Park began development. This 750-acre (3.0 km2) planned multi-purpose business park[11] is bounded by Illinois Route 59 on the east, Interstate 90 on the south, Illinois Route 72 on the north, and Beverly Road on the west. The business park came to fruition in 1993 when Sears, Roebuck and Company relocated from the Sears Tower in Chicago to a sprawling headquarters in the northwest part of Prairie Stone.[12][11] That was followed in by Indramat and Quest International, which in 1995 also opened facilities in the park.[13][14][15] Throughout the 1990s, a health and wellness center and child care facility were developed, as well as other smaller office buildings, and a branch of Northern Illinois University. Development of the business park is still ongoing, and recent additions in the 2000s include the 11,000-seat Now Arena; office buildings for Serta, WT Engineering, I-CAR, and Mary Kay; a Cabela's outdoor outfitters store; a 295-room Marriott hotel; and the 400,000-square-foot (37,000 m2) Poplar Creek Crossing Retail Center, which is anchored by Target and numerous other big-box retailers. Future development will include further office buildings and retail development, Sun Island Hotel and Water Park, an amphitheater, and restaurants.

In 2011, the Village of Hoffman Estates took over ownership of the Now Arena.[16] On June 23, 2020, the Village of Hoffman Estates approved an $11.5 million deal to rename the Sears Centre Arena to the "NOW Arena".[17]

In the fall of 2016, papers and artifacts from President Barack Obama's administration began to arrive in town, where they are being stored in a building on Golf Road. The site is their temporary home while construction takes place on the Barack Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park, Chicago, and is not open to the public.[18]

In January 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the second U.S. case of COVID-19 in a Hoffman Estates resident. The patient, a woman in her 60s returning from Wuhan, China, was treated at St. Alexius Medical Center.[19] Her husband was later infected in the first case of human-to-human transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the United States.[20]

Geography

[edit]

According to the 2021 census gazetteer files, Hoffman Estates has a total area of 21.25 square miles (55.04 km2), of which 21.07 square miles (54.57 km2) (or 99.15%) is land and 0.18 square miles (0.47 km2) (or 0.85%) is water.[21]

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
Census Pop. Note
1960 8,296  
1970 22,238   168.1%
1980 37,272   67.6%
1990 46,363   24.4%
2000 49,495   6.8%
2010 51,895   4.8%
2020 52,530   1.2%
U.S. Decennial Census[22]
2010[23] 2020[24]
Hoffman Estates village, Illinois – Racial and ethnic composition
Note: the US Census treats Hispanic/Latino as an ethnic category. This table excludes Latinos from the racial categories and assigns them to a separate category. Hispanics/Latinos may be of any race.
Race / Ethnicity (NH = Non-Hispanic) Pop 2000[25] Pop 2010[23] Pop 2020[24] % 2000 % 2010 % 2020
White alone (NH) 33,789 29,357 26,014 68.27% 56.57% 49.52%
Black or African American alone (NH) 2,141 2,393 2,472 4.33% 4.61% 4.71%
Native American or Alaska Native alone (NH) 54 60 69 0.11% 0.12% 0.13%
Asian alone (NH) 7,429 11,701 13,733 15.01% 22.55% 26.14%
Pacific Islander alone (NH) 10 4 2 0.02% 0.01% 0.00%
Other race alone (NH) 73 70 183 0.15% 0.13% 0.35%
Mixed race or Multiracial (NH) 801 1,013 1,579 1.62% 1.95% 3.01%
Hispanic or Latino (any race) 5,198 7,297 8,478 10.50% 14.06% 16.14%
Total 49,495 51,895 52,350 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%

As of the 2020 census[26] there were 52,530 people, 18,110 households, and 14,048 families residing in the village. The population density was 2,472.58 inhabitants per square mile (954.67/km2). There were 19,160 housing units at an average density of 901.86 per square mile (348.21/km2). The racial makeup of the village was 52.08% White, 26.26% Asian, 4.87% African American, 0.60% Native American, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 7.51% from other races, and 8.68% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 16.14% of the population.

There were 18,110 households, out of which 36.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.71% were married couples living together, 11.97% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.43% were non-families. 18.07% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.43% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.16 and the average family size was 2.77.

The village's age distribution consisted of 23.1% under the age of 18, 7.3% from 18 to 24, 27.7% from 25 to 44, 28.3% from 45 to 64, and 13.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38.2 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.4 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $92,423, and the median income for a family was $103,641. Males had a median income of $56,210 versus $42,288 for females. The per capita income for the village was $40,016. About 3.3% of families and 4.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 4.9% of those under age 18 and 3.5% of those age 65 or over.

Economy

[edit]

Employers

[edit]

Many Japanese companies have their U.S. headquarters in Hoffman Estates and Schaumburg[27] but the largest employers in Hoffman Estates as of 2023[28] are:

No. Employer No. of employees
1 St. Alexius Medical Center 2,500
2 Siemens Medical Systems 400
3 Claire's[29] 400
4 Village of Hoffman Estates 370
5 FANUC America[30] 350
6 Vistex 350
7 Leopardo Companies, Inc. 300
8 Wells Fargo 300
9 The Salvation Army 270
10 Tate & Lyle 220

Education

[edit]

The village is served by several public school districts. The majority of residents who live in Schaumburg Township attend:

  • Township High School District 211 (9–12)[31]
  • Community Consolidated School District 54 (K–8)[32]

North Hoffman Estates (north of I-90) residents are served by:

  • Township High School District 211
  • Community Consolidated School District 15 (K–8)[33] (East of Huntington Blvd)
  • Barrington School District 220 (K–12) (Unit District) (West of Huntington Blvd).[34]

Residents west of Barrington Road primarily attend Unit School District, Elgin Area U46.

High schools

[edit]

Schools located in the Hoffman Estates village limits:

  • Hoffman Estates High School
  • James B. Conant High School

Other high schools in the same township high school district:

  • Schaumburg High School
  • William Fremd High School
  • Palatine High School

Community college

[edit]

Most of the village is served by Harper College Community College District 512.

Miscellaneous education

[edit]

The Xilin Northwest Chinese School (simplified Chinese: 希林西北中文学校; traditional Chinese: 希林西北中文學校; pinyin: XÄ«lín XÄ«bÄ›i Zhōngwén Xuéxiào) holds its classes at Conant High School in Hoffman Estates.[35] It serves grades preschool through 12.[36] The school predominately serves mainland Chinese families. In 2003 the school held its classes in Palatine High School in Palatine. In 2000 the school had served around 300 students. This figure increased almost by 100%, to almost 600 students. This made it one of the largest of the Chinese schools in the Chicago area.[37]

Library

[edit]
  • Barrington Area Library
  • Schaumburg Township District Library
  • Gail Borden Public Library District
  • Palatine Township Library

Sister city

[edit]

Hoffman Estates has one sister city:[38]

  • Angoulême, Charente, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France

Transportation

[edit]

Pace provides bus service on multiple routes connecting Hoffman Estates to Elgin, Rosemont, and other destinations.[39]

Notable people

[edit]
  • Tammy Duckworth, U.S. Senator from Illinois (2016–present)[40]
  • Rob Valentino (b. 1985), former soccer player who is an assistant coach for Atlanta United[41]
  • William Beckett, lead singer of the band The Academy Is...

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ "2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved March 15, 2022.
  2. ^ a b U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Hoffman Estates, Illinois
  3. ^ "Hoffman Estates village, Illinois". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved April 15, 2022.
  4. ^ "The Sunderlage Smokehouse: Hoffman Eestates' National Register Landmark". History of Schaumburg Township: A Blog of the Schaumburg Township District Library. February 21, 2010. Retrieved March 3, 2017.
  5. ^ a b Collins, Catherine (August 24, 1986). "Hoffman Estates Plans a Revamp of Future Image". Chicago Tribune.
  6. ^ "Hoffman Estates, IL". The Encyclopedia of Chicago. Retrieved March 8, 2020.
  7. ^ "HR0614 96th General Assembly". State of Illinois.
  8. ^ Davis, Robert (October 27, 1973). "U.S. indicts builder, seven ex-officials in suburb bribe". Chicago Tribune.
  9. ^ "History of Hoffman Estates". Village of Hoffman Estates. Retrieved March 8, 2020.
  10. ^ "Name history of Hoffman Estates". Falcon Living. Retrieved November 26, 2017.
  11. ^ a b Sulski, Jim (May 11, 2000). "Versatile Network Brings Workers to Prairie Stone Business Park". Chicago Tribune.
  12. ^ Bernstein, David (May 16, 2020). "The Sears Headquarters Deal Cost Taxpayers $500 Million. 30 Years Later, There's Little to Show for It". ProPublica.
  13. ^ Russis, Martha (December 28, 1994). "PRAIRIE STONE GETS ELECTRONIC FIRM FOR TENANT". Chicago Tribune.
  14. ^ Kerch, Steve (October 30, 1994). "GETTING THE NOD". Chicago Tribune.
  15. ^ "Village of Hoffman Estates: History of Hoffman Estates". Hoffmanestates.com. Archived from the original on May 11, 2012. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  16. ^ Manson, Ken (December 23, 2009). "Suburb takes over Sears Centre". Chicago Tribune.
  17. ^ Zumbach, Lauren (June 23, 2020). "Sears name disappearing from another Chicago-area building. Hoffman Estates arena gets a new name this fall". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved June 24, 2020.
  18. ^ Skiba, Katherine (October 21, 2016). "Military Soon to Start Moving Obama's Papers to Hoffman Estates". Chicago Tribune. Washington DC. Retrieved March 3, 2017.
  19. ^ "Coronavirus Confirmed In Chicago; Woman In Her 60s Being Treated For Symptoms". CBS Chicago. Chicago. January 24, 2020. Retrieved February 13, 2020.
  20. ^ Hauck, Grace (January 30, 2020). "Chicago man is first US case of person-to-person coronavirus spread". USA Today. Chicago. Retrieved February 13, 2020.
  21. ^ "Gazetteer Files". Census.gov. Retrieved June 29, 2022.
  22. ^ "Decennial Census of Population and Housing by Decades". US Census Bureau.
  23. ^ a b "P2 Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2010: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171) – Hoffman Estates village, Illinois". United States Census Bureau.
  24. ^ a b "P2 Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2020: DEC Redistricting Data (PL 94-171) –Hoffman Estates village, Illinois". United States Census Bureau.
  25. ^ "P004: Hispanic or Latino, and Not Hispanic or Latino by Race – 2000: DEC Summary File 1 – Hoffman Estates village, Illinois". United States Census Bureau.
  26. ^ "Explore Census Data". data.census.gov. Retrieved June 28, 2022.
  27. ^ Selvam, Ashok. "Asian population booming in suburbs". Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, Illinois). March 6, 2011. Retrieved on June 19, 2013.
  28. ^ "Village of Hoffman Estates Comprehensive Annual Financial Report". June 25, 2024.
  29. ^ " FAQ Archived July 13, 2014, at the Wayback Machine." Claire's. Retrieved on December 25, 2011. "Claire’s Stores, Inc. has its investor relations and customer service located in Pembroke Pines , Florida . The buying, marketing and distribution offices are located in Hoffman Estates, a suburb of Chicago . Please visit Contact Us if you would like to send correspondence to our corporate headquarters."
  30. ^ "Village of Hoffman Estates Top Employers". Hoffmanestates.org. March 21, 2012. Archived from the original on April 22, 2012. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  31. ^ "d211.org". d211.org. Archived from the original on May 4, 2012. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  32. ^ "sd54.k12.il.us". sd54.k12.il.us. April 19, 2012. Archived from the original on February 1, 1998. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  33. ^ "ccsd15.net". ccsd15.net. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  34. ^ "cusd220.lake.k12.il.us". cusd220.lake.k12.il.us. Archived from the original on July 3, 2006. Retrieved April 30, 2012.
  35. ^ "School Location." Northwest Xilin Chinese School. Retrieved on February 24, 2014. "School Address 700 East Cougar Trail,Hoffman Estates,IL 60194 Located at Conant High School campus."
  36. ^ "About Us." Northwest Xilin Chinese School. Retrieved on February 24, 2014.
  37. ^ Ray, Tiffany. "Schools connect students to China." Chicago Tribune. March 2, 2003. Retrieved on February 24, 2014.
  38. ^ "Archived copy". Archived from the original on April 5, 2017. Retrieved April 4, 2017.cite web: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  39. ^ "RTA System Map" (PDF). Retrieved January 30, 2024.
  40. ^ "Endorsement: Duckworth for U.S. Senate". Daily Herald. October 8, 2022.
  41. ^ "Rob Valentino Biography". ESPN. Retrieved March 31, 2024.
[edit]
  • Village of Hoffman Estates official website

 

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Reviews for


Jeffery James

(5)

Very happy with my experience. They were prompt and followed through, and very helpful in fixing the crack in my foundation.

Sarah McNeily

(5)

USS was excellent. They are honest, straightforward, trustworthy, and conscientious. They thoughtfully removed the flowers and flower bulbs to dig where they needed in the yard, replanted said flowers and spread the extra dirt to fill in an area of the yard. We've had other services from different companies and our yard was really a mess after. They kept the job site meticulously clean. The crew was on time and friendly. I'd recommend them any day! Thanks to Jessie and crew.

Jim de Leon

(5)

It was a pleasure to work with Rick and his crew. From the beginning, Rick listened to my concerns and what I wished to accomplish. Out of the 6 contractors that quoted the project, Rick seemed the MOST willing to accommodate my wishes. His pricing was definitely more than fair as well. I had 10 push piers installed to stabilize and lift an addition of my house. The project commenced at the date that Rick had disclosed initially and it was completed within the same time period expected (based on Rick's original assessment). The crew was well informed, courteous, and hard working. They were not loud (even while equipment was being utilized) and were well spoken. My neighbors were very impressed on how polite they were when they entered / exited my property (saying hello or good morning each day when they crossed paths). You can tell they care about the customer concerns. They ensured that the property would be put back as clean as possible by placing MANY sheets of plywood down prior to excavating. They compacted the dirt back in the holes extremely well to avoid large stock piles of soils. All the while, the main office was calling me to discuss updates and expectations of completion. They provided waivers of lien, certificates of insurance, properly acquired permits, and JULIE locates. From a construction background, I can tell you that I did not see any flaws in the way they operated and this an extremely professional company. The pictures attached show the push piers added to the foundation (pictures 1, 2 & 3), the amount of excavation (picture 4), and the restoration after dirt was placed back in the pits and compacted (pictures 5, 6 & 7). Please notice that they also sealed two large cracks and steel plated these cracks from expanding further (which you can see under my sliding glass door). I, as well as my wife, are extremely happy that we chose United Structural Systems for our contractor. I would happily tell any of my friends and family to use this contractor should the opportunity arise!

Chris Abplanalp

(5)

USS did an amazing job on my underpinning on my house, they were also very courteous to the proximity of my property line next to my neighbor. They kept things in order with all the dirt/mud they had to excavate. They were done exactly in the timeframe they indicated, and the contract was very details oriented with drawings of what would be done. Only thing that would have been nice, is they left my concrete a little muddy with boot prints but again, all-in-all a great job

Dave Kari

(5)

What a fantastic experience! Owner Rick Thomas is a trustworthy professional. Nick and the crew are hard working, knowledgeable and experienced. I interviewed every company in the area, big and small. A homeowner never wants to hear that they have foundation issues. Out of every company, I trusted USS the most, and it paid off in the end. Highly recommend.

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