Check the foundation before concrete.
A look at foundation preparation before the slab is poured, when problems are still simple to fix.
Pre-Pour Inspection
Once concrete is poured, the work beneath it is hidden for good. A pre-pour inspection gives you a chance to look at the foundation prep while everything is still visible. It is one of the few moments when a fix costs very little compared to later. That makes timing and communication with your builder especially important.
Caleb Charbonneau reviews the site against what he can observe and what the plans call for. He looks at items like forms, vapor barrier, reinforcement and plumbing rough-ins. Findings are shared so you can raise concerns with your builder before the pour. A pre-pour visit is usually brief, and it can prevent very expensive trouble later on.
What gets checked.
- Slab forms and general layout
- Prepared soil and fill condition
- Vapor barrier placement and seams
- Steel reinforcement placement
- Plumbing rough-in under the slab
- Termite treatment evidence
- Slab edges and thickened footings
- Clean, debris free pour area
The right time to call.
Three situations where this inspection earns its keep.
Before the slab is poured
Timing is everything. Book the inspection once prep is complete but before the concrete truck arrives, and tell your builder.
When building a custom home
Custom builds put you in close contact with the process. An independent look at the foundation adds another check on the work.
On any new construction
Even in a larger community, you can ask for a pre-pour visit if your builder allows access. Check your contract first.
Good to know.
Can I get access to my build site?
Usually only with your builder's permission. Review your contract and ask early. Builders often have rules about site safety and scheduling, so give them plenty of notice and a clear time window. A friendly, early request usually goes over best, and a written reply helps both sides.
Does this replace the city inspection?
No. Building department inspections serve a different purpose. A private pre-pour inspection works for you as the buyer, giving a second look and a written record you can discuss with the builder. Both inspections have value, and they do not compete with each other in any way.
What if something is wrong?
Tell your builder right away, while the work is still open. Fixing a problem before the pour is far easier than after. Caleb can describe what he saw so you can raise it clearly. Written notes and photos from the visit can make that conversation faster and clearer.
Often booked together.
A review of framing, wiring, plumbing and ductwork while the walls are still open.
View service →An independent look at a finished new build before you sign, so punch list items are found early.
View service →Find problems in a newer home while the builder's warranty still covers them.
View service →Services
- Full Home Inspection
- Pre-Purchase Inspection
- Pre-Listing Inspection
- 4-Point Inspection
- Wind Mitigation Inspection
- Pre-Pour Inspection
- Pre-Drywall Inspection
- New Construction Final Inspection
- Builder Warranty Inspection
- Move-Out Inspection
- Rental Inspection
- Indoor Air Quality Testing
- Mold Swab Testing
- Well Water Testing
- Pool & Spa Inspection