Crawlspace

What's in the crawlspace?
 

Most people avoid the crawlspace for good reason. It's dusty,dirty and likely has spiders or other critters in it.  Access is often difficult and limited. It is however, an important part of any thorough home inspection. It's common to find defects in the foundation, drainage, framing, plumbing, electrical, heating, insulation, and ventilation.
In the crawlspace, the foundation stem walls are visible and can be inspected for cracks or movement. Efflorescence on the stem walls could indicate moisture intrusion. Hold down bolts or earthquake protection hardware can be seen in the crawlspace.
Deviations from plumb or level in the floor framing can sometimes be spotted in the crawlspace. Movement or deterioration of posts and support piers can be seen. Earth movement and unwise excavation are potential problems.
The plumbing system pipes are concealed in the walls in most of the house. But in the crawlspace, the supply and wastewater pipes are usually visible. 
Similarly, much of the electrical system cables, conduits, and enclosures can be inspected.
With the opportunity to see portions of the systems that are not visible elsewhere, inspection of the crawlspace is very important.