By Geneva Cruz-La Santa, CP&M
Crawl spaces are built when a basement is unwanted or is otherwise not feasible. They are vital to a residence to provide access to electrical wiring, mechanical systems, and plumbing. When adequately sealed and maintained, crawl spaces provide a defensive buffer between the damp ground and the interior structure of a home and can additionally aid in radon mitigation.
Due to changes in code and new construction practices, crawl spaces in buildings constructed ten or more years old may need updates to comply with current standards. Serious consequences can occur if your crawl space is not routinely maintained. For example, debris left in a crawl space from the original construction in combination with poor interior grading and moisture problems can result in mold growth. Mold can develop from condensation or groundwater entering the crawl space. Inadequate exterior drainage measures can also create moisture problems; this often results in water accumulating around the outer foundation walls and making its way into the crawl space. Structural damage from either cracks or gaps in foundation walls can allow water to seep into your crawl space exacerbating problems. Also, plumbing leaks from cracked or corroded pipes can cause water to accumulate in crawl spaces. Mold growth needs to be identified; mold mitigation plans must be conducted to eliminate the cause and address severe issues adequately.
Often Associations and Managers are not aware of what to watch for with crawl space maintenance. The following can be red flags when walking properties:
- Standing water (both inside and outside of the crawl space);
- Humidity build-up, including a damp, wet, or musty odor;
- Missing visqueen or other barriers;
- Sagging floors & deteriorated floor joists;
- Damaged or missing concrete caissons;
- Rusted steel support beams and posts;
- Missing or non-functioning sump pumps;
- Construction debris;
- Missing or damaged insulation; and/or
- Inadequate ventilation.
Preventive maintenance begins with a simple inspection. A specialized professional can identify pre-existing or potential problems that need to be appropriately addressedbefore they lead to more extensive and costly repairs.
Geneva Cruz-La Santa has over 19 years of experience with CP&M and its related companies. CP&M specializes in providing solutions for Commercial Property Managers, HOA-managed multi-family communities, REO rehabilitation, apartment industries, and government housing entities.
