Crack in basement wall - new construction

[sam]

I recently noticed a crack (abt 1-2 mm - [1/8 inch] wide) starting from the top of the basement window corner, to the floor, (in a townhome for which I signed an agreement of purchase about 4 months ago). As per all accounts, it probably is a shrinkage or settlement crack. Is it normal to have a crack so soon in the life of a home?

The settlement date is just 2 weeks away, and I want to make sure that I am not sitting on a lemon. Even if there are no structural issues, what impact does this have on the resale value? I have paid 5% upfront - should I try and get out of the deal, or should i force the builder to do a better jop of the repair? He is only willing to patch it up from the inside, with a epoxy/rubber sealant.

Any help will be really appreciated!!!!

Sam

[SQLit]

call an attorney in construction law. Your area this might be common, and it could mean more problems down the road. Walking away from it with this much time invested will be hard.

[Des Perado]

My experience with concrete cracks is that they only get bigger with time. I'd walk. Des

[B]

If the house is new, ask the city building inspector. If it leaks, epoxy sealant will not fix it. (Would sealant on the inside wall have saved the RMS Titantic?)

[RB]

I'd get a competent structural engineer to evaluate the situation first. And if necessary recommend a way to remediate the problem.

Is the crack of significance? You don't know yet and an attorney certainly won't. Going to attorney at this point doesn't add anything because you don't know if there is any damage other than the existence of a crack.

I have several cracks of this sort and have had them for over a decade. My assessment is that in my case they do not represent a risk.

RB

sam wrote:

[Dennis J Sunday]

Sam, Many cracks in concrete foundations are harmless and considered part of normal settling. Some such cracks may be as wide as 1/4"! Generally when a home is inspected prior to sale all cracks are noted in the inspectors report. The area you describe is a common one for cracking to occur. It is a weaker portion of the wall due to the 90 degree corner of the window opening. Does the crack show on the outside of the structure? Is there any evidence of moisture inside on the wall or on the floor? How old is the building? Fairly new I think. If there is evidence of structural damage or possible water seepage, a qualified structural engineer should be consulted.

In a condominium the exterior and foundation walls ARE considered common areas. The association would be responsible for any repairs and damages. (This is true in New York, anyway).

Best of Luck, Dennis J Sunday Home Inspection Systems

[sam]

Yes, the crack can be seen from the outside. The home is currently being constructed (it is almost complete, and I am 10 days away from the settlement date).

What impact, if any, would such a crack have on the resale value? Would it scare future buyers ?

sam

[Dennis J Sunday]

Sam,

Again, many of these cracks are superficial. If the home is under construction,you or the home owners association need to get on the builder's butt, pronto. Advise all claims in WRITING. The HOA will eventually have to pick up the tab for any repairs if the builder doesn't. As far as resale value - probably no effect. Builders become very scarce in Condos after the sale. I spent 4 years on the Board of my HOA and had to fight the fight.

-- Best Regards, Dennis J Sunday Home Inspection Systems