They could be, and it may not be visible or noticeable at the time of purchase!

Upwards of 35,000+ homes throughout the state of Connecticut are facing the potential for a failed concrete foundation due to the possible presence of a naturally occurring iron sulfide, pyrrhotite, in their concrete foundation. The concrete originated from the JJ Mottes Concrete Company in Stafford Springs, Connecticut, and was supplied for residential foundations for properties built during the years 1983 to present, or older homes with additions or detached structures built from 1983-on. The mineral is found in a Willington, Connecticut, quarry that no longer supplies aggregate for residential foundations.

Pyrrhotite causes the slow deterioration of the concrete when exposed to oxygen and water. The cracking starts small and may take more than 10 years to over 30 years to appear. Horizontal cracks or cracks that splinter out like a web are the most concerning. A rust-colored residue or white powder may appear. As the concrete deteriorates, it often becomes structurally unsound.

The damage is irreversible. The only repair is to fully replace the impacted foundation with a new foundation that does not contain pyrrhotite.

The State of Connecticut has a program set up for owners of properties to help with the process and cost associated with a foundation replacement.

It Won’t! Unless they have a separate foundation inspection and report before the close of their new property. The CFSIC program has certified just 35 Home Inspectors and Professional Engineers across the state to provide the service of a separate foundation inspection & report to satisfy the requirements of providing a severity class code before the close of their new property. In short: any home in Connecticut that was built from 1983-on, or has had an addition built from 1983-on, should have a separate CFSIC-certified foundation inspection & report before closing as protection in the future if any issues arise related to crumbling foundations. Once a buyer closes on a property, they forfeit their opportunity for assistance from this program and assume full responsibility and cost associated with a foundation replacement.

As real estate professionals, you play a key role in safeguarding your clients’ investments. By advising them to obtain a separate foundation inspection for homes built or renovated during the risk period, you’re ensuring they avoid a potentially devastating financial burden.

What to Look for During Showings

Here are a few early warning signs of a potentially crumbling foundation that you can flag for your clients:

If you notice any of these indicators, recommend a foundation inspection immediately.  If none of these are observed, a separate foundation report is recommended for future protection.