Crawlspace Inspection: How to Do, Tools Checklist, Evaluation

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

A crawlspace inspection is the process of examining the area beneath a building (typically between the ground and the first floor) to assess its condition and determine suitable solutions. When you inspect a crawlspace, you should follow the below recommended expert step-by-step guide with suitable tools and equipment. As well as, you can also use the Aqviz crawlspace inspection checklist as guidance for the inspection process.

As waterproofing experts, we highly recommend that you consider the seasonality and environmental conditions while inspecting a crawlspace. As well as both humans and robots can be used for the crawlspace. Human crawl inspectors are best for decision making, while robots are best for the difficult access crawlspace areas. Not only that you can use a mobile phone for the crawlspace inspection. You should follow the steps below for that. There are crawlspace inspection companies you can hire for this, including Aqviz waterproofing.

The time for the crawlspace inspection depends on the size and access difficulty, inspection depth, and experience level of the inspector. After the crawlspace inspection, you should take essential actions to fix or prevent the damage in the crawlspace. Contact the Aqviz team, we will support you to inspect your crawlspace today.

What is Crawlspace Inspection?

Crawlspace inspection is the process of examining the area beneath a building (typically between the ground and the first floor) to assess its condition and determine suitable solutions. Crawlspace inspection evaluates the moisture condition, structural condition, insulation, pests, ventilation, and water damage.

Crawlspace inspection helps to determine early crawlspace problems, improve indoor air quality, protect structural integrity, increase energy efficiency, and increase home value and safety.

How to Inspect a Crawlspace?

To inspect a crawlspace properly, you need to follow these steps

1. Check the entry and accessibility of the crawlspace
2. Check the ground surface and moisture conditions
3. Check the foundation walls and footings
4. Check the floor framing system (joists, beams, subfloor)
5. Check the ventilation and airflow in the crawlspace
6. Check the plumbing and HVAC components
7. Check the electrical and utilities in the crawlspace
8. Check for the pest infestation of the crawlspace
9. Check insulation and vapor control
10. Check the sump pump and French drain system
11. Check odor, mold, and air quality issues
12. Check for the past repairs and their impacts

1. Check the entry and accessibility of the crawlspace

1. Inspect concrete or block walls for cracks, damp spots, or bowing
2. Check for moisture or leaks at cold joints or pipe entry points
3. Look for efflorescence (white powdery mineral deposits)
4. Check the footing area for pooling or seepage after rainfall
5. Note structural shifting or settling signs (gaps, uneven walls)

2. Check the ground surface and moisture conditions in the crawlspace

1. Check for standing water, wet soil, or mud under the vapor barrier
2. Inspect the vapor barrier (if present) for tears, gaps, or improper coverage
3. Look for efflorescence or water trails along the perimeter
4. Use a moisture meter to test the ground saturation level
5. Check for signs of mold or mildew growth on ground surfaces

3. Check the foundation walls and footings in crawlspace

1. Inspect concrete or block walls for cracks, damp spots, or bowing
2. Check for moisture or leaks at cold joints or pipe entry points
3. Look for efflorescence (white powdery mineral deposits)
4. Check the footing area for pooling or seepage after rainfall
5. Note structural shifting or settling signs (gaps, uneven walls)

4. Check the floor framing system (joists, beams, subfloor) in crawlspace

1. Inspect wood framing for signs of rot, mold, or fungal growth
2. Check for sagging or warped joists or girders
3. Look for rusted nails, brackets, or fasteners
4. Inspect the underside of the subfloor for water stains or wet insulation
5. Check for termite damage or frass near wood-to-soil contact areas

5. Check the ventilation and airflow in the crawlspace

1. Confirm all crawl space vents are clear and open (unless sealed by design)
2. Check that the vapor barrier does not block vents
3. Inspect mechanical vents or exhaust fans for operation
4. Note musty or stagnant air, which indicates poor ventilation
5. Check the humidity level with a gauge, whether it is below 60%

6. Check the plumbing and HVAC components in crawlspace

1. Inspect all visible plumbing lines for drips, corrosion, or sweating
2. Check for leaks at joints, valves, or cleanouts
3. Look for condensation on ductwork or HVAC components
4. Ensure drain pipes slope correctly and don’t pool
5. Inspect for signs of previous flooding or pipe bursts

7. Check the electrical and utilities in the crawlspace

1. Check for rodent droppings, nests, chewed insulation, or burrows
2. Look for insect activity like ants, termites, or cockroach trails
3. Inspect wood framing for mud tubes (termite indicator)
4. Note any entry points or gaps that allow pest intrusion

8. Check for the pest infestation signs in the crawlspace

1. Check for rodent droppings, nests, chewed insulation, or burrows
2. Look for insect activity like ants, termites, or cockroach trails
3. Inspect wood framing for mud tubes (termite indicator)
4. Note any entry points or gaps that allow pest intrusion

9. Check insulation and vapor control in crawlspace

1. Inspect fiberglass batts or foam board for sagging, wetness, or mold
2. Ensure the vapor barrier covers 100% of the ground with 6-mil or thicker plastic
3. Check if walls have rigid foam insulation and sealed seams
4. Note areas where insulation is missing or improperly installed
5. Inspect rim joists for spray foam coverage or air leaks

10. Check the sump pump and French drain system in crawlspace

1. Check for interior perimeter drains or French drain systems
2. Inspect the sump pit for debris and confirm pump operation
3. Test the float switch to activate the pump manually
4. Ensure the discharge line runs outside and is not blocked
5. Check if a backup power or alarm system is installed

12. Check odor, mold, and air quality issues in crawlspace

1. Note musty or earthy odors
2. Check for visible mold on wood, insulation, or vapor barriers
3. Use a moisture meter to detect hidden damp spots
4. Measure relative humidity to assess condensation risk

13. Check for the past repairs and their impacts crawlspace

1. Inspect the wall or floor crack repairs for effectiveness
2. Check crawl space encapsulation materials and seal conditions
3. Note previous use of dehumidifiers or liners
4. Document patching, sump installation, or foundation reinforcement work
5. Look for improper materials used in DIY repairs (tar, duct tape, etc.)

What is a Crawlspace Inspection Checklist?

A Crawlspace Inspection Checklist is a pre-prepared list of items and areas to examine when inspecting a crawlspace beneath a building. A crawlspace inspection checklist serves as guidance for homeowners, contractors, or inspectors to systematically assess the condition, safety, and integrity of the crawlspace without missing any place or situation in the crawlspace.

Where to Download the Crawlspace Checklist?

As waterproofing experts, Aqviz experts have prepared a complete crawlspace inspection checklist for the crawlspace. It includes all the above checking items.

A crawl space inspection checklist consists of examining items, check boxes, and a note space in the list. Aqviz crawlspace inspection checklist is more user-friendly and easy re-evaluate for troubleshooting.

What Safety Features Are Needed for a Crawlspace Inspection?

Personal protective equipment for crawlspace inspection

1. Coveralls or work clothes
2. Gloves
3. Respirator or dust mask
4. Safety glasses or goggles
5. Knee pads
6. Helmet or bump cap

Lighting and visibility equipment for crawlspace inspection

1. Headlamp or hands-free light
2. Backup flashlight

Environmental safety tools for crawlspace inspection

1. Moisture meter
2. Gas detector
3. Temperature and humidity gauge

Pest and structural awareness for crawlspace inspection

1. Probe or stick
2. First aid kit
3. Mobile phone or Two-way radio

Read More About: 21 Essential Waterproofing Tools: Professional, Safety and Basic

When to Inspect the Crawlspace?

When inspecting a crawlspace, you should consider the seasonality and environmental conditions

In which Season Should Crawlspace be Inspected?

Crawlspace inspection is ideal for the spring and fall seasons.

1. Spring: After winter thaw, inspect the crawlspace for water intrusion, mold, and damage caused by freezing temperatures or pests seeking warmth.
2. Fall: Before winter sets in, check crawlspace insulation, seal openings, and ensure the space is ready for cold weather. Address moisture or pest issues before they worsen.

In which Environmental Conditions should the Crawlspace be inspected?

Crawlspace should be inspected after heavy rain, high humidity periods, dry spells, or droughts, and pest season for the best evaluations.

• After Heavy Rain or Flooding: Check for crawlspace standing water, saturated soil, or foundation seepage.
• High Humidity Periods: Inspect for crawlspace condensation, mold growth, and the effectiveness of dehumidifiers or vapor barriers.
• Dry Spells or Droughts: Evaluate the crawlspace for soil shifting or foundation settling that may impact support structures.
• Pest Season (Spring to Fall): Inspect the crawlspace for termite activities, rodents, or ants-inspect for nests, droppings, or damage.

Can Robots be used for Crawlspace Inspection?

Yes, robots can be effectively used to inspect crawlspaces, especially in tight, hazardous, or hard-to-reach areas. The most used crawlspace inspection robots are Inuktun Versatrax, SuperDroid Robots, Scout Inspection Robot (by SuperDroid), InspectorBot, and PipeGuard or Deep Trekker DTG3. These inspection robots are equipped with cameras, sensors, and sometimes robotic arms to navigate, record, and analyze conditions without requiring a human to enter potentially unsafe environments.

5 Advantages of using robots for crawlspace inspection

1. Prevents human exposure to harmful mold, pests, electrical hazards, or structural collapse risks in the crawlspace
2. Easily navigates areas in the crawlspace that are too small or dangerous for humans to enter
3. High-definition cameras and lighting provide clear, real-time or recorded video for thorough analysis of a crawlspace
4. Speeds up crawlspace inspections and reduces the need for multiple workers or repeated entries
5. Allows inspectors to capture and store images, videos, and sensor data for documentation, future comparison, and client reporting.

How to Inspect a Crawlspace with a Mobile Phone?

1. Prepare for safety by wearing protective gear and ensuring ventilation
2. Set up the phone with enabling flashlight, selfie stick, and camera with 4K or HD
3. Enter the crawlspace slowly and extend the selfie stick if the space is available
4. Record the key inspection areas with moisture and water damage, vapor barrier, support insulation, wiring, plumbing, pests, and molds.
5. Upload images to inspection apps like Tap Inspect or HomeGauge.
6. Identify and document issues for follow-up or professional review.
7. Store videos/photos in the cloud or secure storage for records.

What Companies Inspect the Crawlspace?

Crawlspace inspection is done by the home inspection companies, pest control companies, waterproofing companies, foundation repair contractors and local independent inspectors and contractors.

1. Waterproofing & crawlspace repair companies: Aqviz waterproofing, Basement Systems, Dry Pro Foundation and Crawlspace Specialists, JES Foundation Repair, AquaGuard Foundation Solutions, and Crawl Space Ninja
2. Home inspection companies: Pillar To Post Home Inspectors, HouseMaster, AmeriSpec Inspection Services, WIN Home Inspection, and National Property Inspections (NPI)
3. Pest control companies: Terminix, Orkin, Ehrlich Pest Control, Arrow Exterminators, and Massey Services
4. Foundation repair contractors: Olshan Foundation Solutions, Ram Jack, Supportworks, and Alpha Foundations
5. Local independent inspectors or contractors: InterNACHI-certified inspectors, ASHI-certified inspectors, local waterproofing specialists, and licensed general contractors

How Long Does it Take to Inspect a Crawlspace?

The time for the crawlspace inspection depends on the size and access difficulty, inspection depth, and experience level of the inspector.

Hence, it will take 30-45 minutes for the small, dry, accessible crawlspace, while a large or complex crawlspace will take 1.5-2 hours for a human.

If you use a robot for the crawlspace inspection, it will take 20-30 mins for the basic real-time camera scan, while a detailed, recorded inspection with review will take 1-2 hours. But this depends on the robot speed, mobility, camera control, and footage review time.

What Should You Do after Crawl Space Inspection?

You should follow the steps below after the crawlspace inspection

1. Review the crawlspace inspection report or findings
2. Prioritize and plan crawlspace repairs or maintenance
3. Hire qualified crawlspace professionals (if needed)
4. Clean and organize the crawlspace properly
5. Schedule regular crawlspace inspections
6. Document everything after crawlspace inspection

Read More About: Crawlspace Waterproofing: Everything You Should Know

Can I Inspect the Crawlspace DIY?

Yes, you can inspect a crawlspace DIY if it’s safely accessible. Wear protective gear, use good lighting, and follow a checklist to look for moisture, pests, structural damage, and insulation issues. For serious problems, consult a professional.