10 Essential Maintenance Tips to Strengthen the Foundation of Your Rental Property

A sturdy foundation determines how well your rental property holds up in the future. Even minor foundation issues can snowball into major problems, turning a profitable property into an expensive burden. Most owners discover foundation troubles only after significant damage occurs, like cracked walls, uneven floors, and doors that won’t close properly, leading to repairs that can cost thousands. 

Taking care of your property’s foundation helps prevent damage and protect your biggest investments. Here are ten essential maintenance steps that will help keep your rental property’s foundation strong.

1. Regular Inspections

Check your foundation twice a year. Look for cracks, uneven floors, or gaps around the walls. If you’re unsure what to look for, ask a professional. They can spot issues you might miss. 

Don’t forget to check your foundation after extreme weather events, as these can cause sudden changes. Keep a record of what you find each time. This helps track changes over time. Don’t wait to get your foundation checked out if you notice anything concerning.

2. Proper Drainage

Proper drainage is essential for maintaining your foundation's health. Install an effective system, such as a French drain or sump pump, to direct water away from your property. Good drainage prevents water pooling, which can cause soil swelling or erosion, leading to cracks or settling. Regularly inspect your gutters and downspouts to ensure they are clear and functioning properly.

Additionally, monitor soil moisture levels and ensure your landscaping promotes drainage away from the foundation. If you're unsure about the best drainage solution for your property, consult an expert for tailored recommendations to help avoid costly foundation repairs. 

3. Clean the Gutters

Keeping your gutters clean is essential for protecting your foundation. When gutters get clogged, they overflow, letting water run down your walls and pool around your foundation. Clean your gutters at least twice a year and more often if you have lots of trees nearby.

Also, check that your downspouts direct water far away from your home. If they’re too short, consider extending them. If you notice frequent clogs, installing gutter guards can help reduce issues. Remember, proper water management starts at the roof and is key to protecting your foundation.

4. Plumbing Checks

Get your pipes checked regularly, as hidden leaks can seriously damage your foundation. Schedule a plumbing inspection every two years, which should include checking visible pipes and using specialized tools to detect hidden leaks. Between inspections, watch for signs of leaks, such as unexplained damp spots on walls or floors.

Additionally, listen for the sound of running water when all taps are off, as this may indicate a leak. If you suspect a problem, call a plumber right away. Early detection can prevent extensive foundation repairs, and fixing small leaks can save you from costly issues down the line.

5. Moisture Balance

Keep the soil around your foundation at the right moisture level. If it’s too dry, the soil can shrink; if it’s too wet, it can swell—both conditions can damage your foundation. During dry periods, water the area near your foundation using a sprinkler or by hand. If watering by hand, aim for about 15 minutes twice a week during the summer.

Be careful not to overwater; the goal is to maintain consistent moisture without creating soggy conditions. If you're unsure about the moisture level, consider using a moisture meter to check. This balance is essential for preventing foundation issues. During rainy seasons, ensure that water drains effectively away from your foundation to avoid excess moisture buildup.

6. Pest Control

Pests can seriously threaten your foundation, particularly termites, which can cause small cracks over time. Be vigilant for signs of infestation, such as discarded wings, small holes, or mud tubes on exterior walls. If you spot these, act quickly by using pest control methods or calling a professional.

Schedule annual pest inspections, especially in termite-prone areas, to catch problems early and prevent foundation damage. Don’t overlook other pests like carpenter ants and rodents, which can also harm your foundation.

To further deter pests, seal any cracks in the walls and ensure proper drainage around your property. Keeping your rental property pest-free protects your foundation and maintains its overall value.

7. Smart Landscaping

Be careful where you plant trees and bushes. Large plants near your home can harm the foundation. Their roots might grow under it and cause problems. Trees can also dry out the soil, so it’s best to plant trees at least 15 feet from your house. Keep bushes at least 2 feet away. Consider the mature size of plants while planning your landscaping.

If you already have trees close by, consider removing them or adding root barriers. For areas near your foundation, choose plants with shallow roots. Smart planting can prevent many foundation issues and enhance your property’s appearance.

8. Root Barriers

If you have big trees near your house, consider root barriers. These stop roots from reaching your foundation. It's best to install them when planting trees, but you can also add them later. Root barriers come in different types, like physical barriers or chemical treatments. Some you can install yourself, but for big jobs, call a professional. They’ll make sure the barrier works without hurting the tree. Consider the tree’s species and growth rate when choosing a barrier. This extra step can prevent future foundation problems and save you from costly future repairs.

9. Quick Crack Fixes

Fix small cracks as soon as you see them. Not all cracks mean big trouble, but repairing them quickly is still best. Small cracks can let in water or pests. They might also grow bigger over time. You can often fix small cracks yourself with a repair kit from a hardware store. Clean the crack, then follow the kit’s instructions to seal it properly.  If cracks keep returning or getting larger, it might be time for professional repair. Keep track of where and when you find cracks. This information can be valuable if you need expert help later.

10. Proper Grading

Check how your yard slopes. It should gently slope away from your house to help water flow away from your foundation. A flat yard or one that slopes towards your house can cause problems. Water might pool near your foundation. After it rains, walk around your property. See where water collects or flows.

If it’s moving towards your house or pooling nearby, you might need to change the grading. This might involve adding soil to create proper grading. Good grading protects your foundation from water damage and maintains your property’s value.

Protect Your Foundation

Looking after your rental property’s foundation is important for long-term success. By following these ten strategies, you can stay ahead of potential issues. Your rental property’s foundation is its backbone. So, be careful to prevent water damage, watch for cracks, and make sure the ground around your building is just right. If you notice water damage or foundation issues, contact foundation repair experts to protect your property’s structural integrity.