Foundation Repair
With the typical dry summer months in Texas, it is important to take appropriate steps to ensure that your home’s foundation will "weather" the Texas heat safely. During the summer, many homeowners’ time (and money) goes to such household tasks as repainting, landscaping, new swimming pools, etc. The proper care for your foundation is very important.

The following guidelines should be practiced when possible:

Watering should be done in a uniform manner as equally as possible on all sides of the foundation to keep the soil moist.

Proper drainage away from the foundation should be maintained in order to prevent ponding of water at the foundation. Such ponding or trapping of water adjacent to the foundation will result in uneven moisture levels.

Gutters may need to be installed to prevent ponding of water from roof run-off. Downspouts should direct run-off a minimum of three-feet away from the foundation.

Trees or large shrubs within 20-feet of the foundation can cause a differential moisture level. More water may be required in these areas during extreme dry periods to ensure proper foundation moisture levels.

During the hot, dry months of summer your foundation should be closely monitored. Adequate watering should be provided to keep soil from separating or pulling away from the foundation. If you notice any cracks in the foundation, brick, sheetrock, etc., and feel that your foundation has already received some damage; it may be necessary to contact a structural or foundation engineer to inspect your home. A correction may be necessary with the use of piers, or simply a more intense watering program may solve your problem.

Permits are required for foundation repairs consisting of four (4) or more piers. The following construction documents are required for permit.

Provide completed permit application - Residential Building Permit Application

Outline drawing of structure showing the areas of proposed repair and report of items to be corrected and details of how the repair is to be performed. Report must be signed and sealed by a Texas Licensed Engineer.

The building permit must be approved and posted at the property prior to any work commencing. All contractors must be registered to perform work in the City of Richardson. If you have any questions regarding these requirements, please contact Building Inspection at 972-744-4195 or email your questions or concerns to Building Inspection. Regular office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Permit submittal Options:

• Email it to permits@cor.gov
• Mail or had deliver to:
Building Inspection Dept.
2360 Campbell Creek Blvd. Suite 550
Richardson, TX 75082