Record the situation and have the meaning assessed based on the context.
A photo doesn't tell everything
The location, direction and development of a crack can provide relevant clues. The building type, material, previous renovations and the subsurface also play a role. A complete assessment is not possible based on the width of one crack alone.
What can you capture?
Take overview and detailed photos with the date and describe when the crack was noticed. Make a note of recent work and any changes. In the event of sudden serious deformation, falling parts or a suspicion of immediate danger: leave the area in question and seek appropriate help immediately.
Record the course of cracks
Take overview photos and detailed photos in which the location is recognizable. Note when a crack is noticed, whether it changes and what activities or events coincide with it. Save the observations by date. Do not draw a safety conclusion from width or direction alone: material, construction and cause must be assessed together. In the event of sudden deformation, loose parts or immediate danger, the situation must be immediately made safe by competent help.
Make the research question specific
Do you want to know whether a crack is cosmetic, whether a renovation is possible, or whether an earlier repair is sufficient? These are different questions with possibly different studies. Describe the reason and share previous reports. Ask which parts are inspected and which hidden conditions are left out of the investigation. A clearly defined assignment helps to use the conclusion correctly.
Your preparation in four steps
- Photos with location and date
- Timeline of changes
- Existing drawings
- Previous repairs
Frequently asked questions on this topic
Is a CPT the same as foundation advice?
No. A CPT is a measurement of the properties of the subsurface. An advice connects soil data with the design question and building loads. Ask what studies are available and whether they are sufficiently appropriate for the location and the proposed structure.
Can an existing foundation be reused?
This requires an assessment of the existing foundation, its condition and the new load. Available drawings, pile data, soil surveys and previous reports can help. The mere fact that a building has been there for a long time does not provide an answer to a new structural change.
View the associated structural calculation, create your preparation list or take the guides and checklists along to the consultation.