Surveyors often will make 3 trips; initial layoff, setting pins on the footers for the masons and then a final survey when the project is complete.

The majority of lenders require a survey to be performed prior to any monies being dispersed.

Prices will vary depending on the complexity of the layout, most surveys will run between $400.00 - $800.00.

A recorded survey should always be included in your legal documentation.

House is laid off and footers are ready to be dug.

Footers are poured, surveyor will locate house on the footers and foundation contractor will be called there after.

Footer depth should be designed in accordance to the amount of weight that is being exerted upon it. At times there may be a need to strengthen the footer by putting bars of steel (rebar) in the footing prior to the concrete being poured. An engineer may need to be consulted when unusual loads and designs come into play.

Footers are only as strong as the concrete mix itself, which seldom is an issue, and the base / ground upon which it is poured. Cracks originating from the footer or base of the foundation is  an indicator of ground or footer failure.

Most footers are typically 2 times the width of the foundation wall itself. Thickness will vary but most residential footings range from 6" thick for 1 story, 8" thick for 1 1/2 story and 10" thick for 2 stories.

When french drains are installed, make sure the installer seals both the top of the footing as well as the foundation wall itself.

Homes with moisture problems often have grading issues. Final grade should be sloped to a minimum of 6 inches in 10 feet.  Make sure your gutters are draining the water away from the house and not back toward the foundation.