Builder starting to pour foundation?

Question

My builder will start pouring my house's foundation pretty soon. I want to make sure they are doing a good job, what can I watch for or ask questions about to make sure they are doing a good job?

Answer 1

Absolutely nothing.  If you do not trust your builder, why did you hire him?

Answer 2

Unless you're well versed in that area of construction, you likely won't be able to determine if the slab is poured properly.  I've hired structural engineers after the fact when I had a question regarding the slab.  You can of course take photos of the process from the placement of the form boards to the actual pouring in you're concerned, but that won't do much good after the fact unless an engineer confirms improper construction.

Answer 3

you can make sure they don't backfill too soon b/c then you will end up w/ cracks and leaks in your basement walls soon after construction is completed

Answer 4

I would not be there for the pour, you will be in the way and they need to work fast, no breaks for chit chat.

Before they poor you can check to make sure the molds look stable and that they used plenty of re-bar.   I like that wide mesh that looks like an animal cage layed over my re-bar for extra protection from small cracks.   You would have to pay for that if you want it, about 2k more.

The other thing to check is that every inch under the foundation was property compacted.    This is a pretty major issue as it will sink after the house weight is on it.

The best thing you can do is contact your states contractors licensing board and make sure they are fully licensed and bonded.   Also check the BBB for complaints and your county court house for law suits against them.

Answer 5

it all depends on how much you know about construction and codes for home building.

why do you feel  like he is going to mess up?