Finished basements hide more defects than any other part of a Maryland property. We look for water entry, structural movement and what the drywall is covering.
A basement finished without addressing the water first simply hides the problem behind drywall. We read the signs that remain: the staining at the base of the trim, the efflorescence on the block, the dehumidifier running in February.
Three findings that decide whether a basement is an asset or a liability.
Patterns of staining and efflorescence show where and how often water has come in.
Horizontal cracking and bowing in block walls are reported as structural concerns.
Humidity, ventilation and vapor management, which decide whether mold follows.
Baltimore metro, the Washington DC suburbs, Frederick County, Northern Maryland and South-Central PA.
Commonly booked together, because these systems affect each other.
Cracking, settlement and drainage around the structure.
Find the source, the moisture path and the hidden damage.
Air sampling and moisture readings where something smells off.
Moisture, framing, insulation and pests under the floor.
Measure this invisible gas before you commit to the property.
A full evaluation of the structure and every major system, for buyers and sellers.
Call Doug and the team on (410) 925-2088 or email clientcare@mdhi.com with anything else.
We inspect what is visible and accessible, and we use moisture readings and the surrounding evidence to assess what is behind the finishes. Concealed areas cannot be evaluated directly, and the report says so.
Not usually. Vertical shrinkage cracking is common and often minor. Horizontal cracking, bowing and displacement are different, and we recommend a structural engineer when we see them.
Yes. The lowest livable level is where radon concentrates, so that is where the test is placed.
Book a basement inspection on its own or as part of your property inspection.
