This morning I went to preview a house for a client. It was a “pretty house” that had recently been flipped. Just about everything had been redone; new kitchen, baths, paint, windows, everything. It was even staged very nicely, straight out of Better Homes and Gardens.
I can see a buyer walking into this house and being very impressed. It would be easy for a person to envision themselves living there, and not having to do a thing except move in.
I almost skipped looking at the basement of this home because it wasn’t finished. I’m glad I didn’t because there was something weird going on.
Have you ever seen one of these adjustable Lally columns in a basement? Maybe you even have one in your home to help provide some extra support where there is a little sagging.
I have one in my own basement. It helps support a sagging corner in my entryway.
This house had a lot of adjustable Lally columns.
So what does this mean for a buyer? Potentially nothing. I’m not a home inspector, nor a structural engineer. Based on what I’ve heard on various home inspection, these really aren’t supposed to be used for permanent support.
Just a friendly reminder…as a buyer, no matter how pretty the house, please consider having a home inspection conducted by a reputable professional. Not only will they educate you on how to operate your new home, they may also unearth some mechanical, structural, or safety issues that need to be addressed. A pretty house is no good if it’s not a safe place to live.