Maintenance Guides / Exterior & Structure

Inspect crawl space

Difficulty: moderateTime: 30 mins

Why it matters

Crawl spaces are out of sight and out of mind — which is exactly why problems fester there. Standing water, mold, termites, and rodents all thrive in neglected crawl spaces. A yearly check catches small problems before they become foundation-level repairs.

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How to do it

  • 1

    Put on a respirator mask, gloves, and a headlamp before entering.

  • 2

    Look for standing water or damp soil — either means a drainage or grading problem.

  • 3

    Check for musty or moldy odors (a sign of excess moisture even without visible water).

  • 4

    Inspect floor joists and sill plates for soft spots, wood rot, or termite damage.

  • 5

    Look for rodent droppings, nesting material, or chewed insulation.

  • 6

    Verify insulation is intact and not sagging or falling down.

  • 7

    If you find moisture, pests, or structural damage, call a professional for assessment.