"Cracks, sloping floors, or sticking doors? Tom evaluates the foundation and structure — and the CSRA's shifting clay soils behind them — to tell you what's cosmetic and what's serious."
A home is only as sound as its foundation and structure — and in the CSRA, the region's expansive clay soils and wet-and-dry cycles put real stress on both. Tom Cely evaluates the foundation, framing, and the signs of movement with a 15+ year construction background, helping you tell the difference between normal, cosmetic settling and a structural concern worth taking seriously.
Tom evaluates the foundation (slab, crawlspace, or basement) for cracks, movement, moisture, and settling, and examines the framing and structural components visible in the crawlspace, attic, and interior.
He looks for the field evidence of movement — cracks in walls and floors, sloping or bouncing floors, sticking doors and windows, and separation at trim — and assesses whether the pattern points to normal settling or an active structural issue.
Findings are documented with photos and explained in plain language, including whether further evaluation by a structural engineer is warranted.
The CSRA's expansive clay soils swell when wet and shrink when dry, and that constant movement stresses foundations across the region. The result can range from harmless hairline cracks to serious, costly structural problems.
The challenge is telling them apart. Not every crack is a crisis — but some are early warnings. Tom's construction background helps him read the pattern and severity and put findings in proper perspective, so you neither panic over cosmetics nor overlook a real issue.
Foundation repairs are among the most expensive a homeowner can face, which makes an honest, experienced assessment before you buy — or before a problem grows — genuinely valuable.
Visible cracks in walls, floors, or the foundation, sloping or bouncy floors, or doors and windows that suddenly stick are the classic signs that make homeowners call.
Before buying a home, especially an older one or one with signs of past movement, a structural evaluation tells you whether you're inheriting a problem. It's also wise after drought or heavy rain if you notice new cracking.
If a general inspection flagged a possible concern, a focused structural look helps you decide whether a structural engineer's evaluation is the right next step.
From your first phone call to the report in your inbox — clear communication and no surprises at every step.
Call Tom at 706-840-4907. We'll answer your questions and book a time that fits your timeline.
Tom performs a careful, focused evaluation, documenting every finding with clear, high-resolution photos.
You receive a detailed, jargon-free report — typically within 24 hours — plus a summary of the major points.
Tom explains what was found and answers your questions, so you know exactly where you stand.
An inspection is only as good as the inspector behind it. Tom's experience and credentials make the difference.
A South Carolina licensed Residential Home Inspector who inspects per the ASHI Standards of Practice on every job.
Real-world experience built since 2014 across the CSRA — and the eye for detail that comes with it.
15+ years in residential and light commercial construction quality control informs every inspection Tom performs.
Plain-language reports with high-resolution photos and a field summary of the major points.
No. Many cracks are cosmetic settling and nothing to worry about — but some indicate active movement. Tom's construction experience helps him read the pattern and severity so you know which kind you're dealing with.
The region's expansive clay soils swell when wet and shrink when dry, and that repeated movement stresses foundations. It's one of the most common structural factors in local homes.
Tom is a home inspector, not a licensed structural engineer. When findings warrant it, he'll tell you clearly that a structural engineer's evaluation is the right next step — and document why.
If the home shows any signs of movement, yes — it's inexpensive insurance against inheriting a very expensive problem, and it gives you real leverage in negotiation.
You're welcome to be. Afterward, Tom provides an informative field summary of the major points and answers any questions or concerns you have, so you understand the findings clearly.
Call or text Tom directly at 706-840-4907, or use our contact form. Tom personally handles all scheduling and is happy to answer any questions before booking.
SC License RBI 48737 • Certified Residential Mold Inspector • 3,000+ Inspections • Serving the CSRA Since 2014