Underwriting

How to remotely assess a property for structural issues before an on-site visit

Remotely assessing for structural issues can save you wasted time and resources on properties with deal-killing problems. You can glean significant clues from public records, satellite imagery, and detailed seller conversations before ever stepping foot on a property.

November 14, 2026 · 3 min read

Review public records for past permits and building history

Access the county's online permit portal. Look for permits related to additions, major renovations, foundation work, or significant repairs. A history of foundation repair permits might indicate ongoing issues, or successful past remediation. No permits for major work could suggest unpermitted additions, which are a structural concern.

Also check for code violations. Repeated violations related to structural integrity, water intrusion, or unsafe conditions are major red flags. This research gives you a documented history that can guide your questions to the seller.

Utilize satellite and street-view imagery

Examine the property from multiple angles using satellite and street-view mapping tools. Look for visible signs of distress: a sagging roofline, bowing exterior walls, unlevel additions, or significant cracking in driveways and sidewalks that could suggest ground movement. Pay attention to drainage patterns around the house.

Compare historical imagery if available. You might see changes in the roof structure, fence lines, or ground levels over time. A newly added structure without corresponding permits is another red flag that can be spotted this way.

Ask targeted questions during seller conversations

During your call, specifically ask about water intrusion, foundation problems, and any settling. "Have you ever noticed any cracks in the walls or ceiling that have grown over time?" or "Has water ever come into the basement or crawlspace?" Probe for when these issues occurred and how they were addressed.

Don't just ask if there are "problems." Frame questions around specific structural components: "How old is the retaining wall, and has it ever shifted?" or "Have you had any issues with the floor being unlevel in certain areas?" This helps elicit more specific answers.

Request current photos or videos of specific areas

If the seller is willing, ask him or her to send photos or even a short video of specific areas you are concerned about based on your initial research. Request close-ups of any visible cracks, sagging, or water stains. This can save you a trip if the issues are too severe.

Instruct the seller on what to capture. "Could you send me a few pictures of the exterior foundation wall, especially near that corner?" or "A video walk-through of the basement, slowly panning the walls, would be helpful." This guides him or her to provide useful information.

Research local geological conditions and soil reports

Some areas are prone to specific geological issues, like expansive clay soils, sinkholes, or seismic activity. A quick online search for the property's area and "geological report" or "soil conditions" can reveal if the property is in a high-risk zone for foundation movement.

This research can inform your risk assessment. A house in a known problem area will require a larger repair contingency and more thorough on-site inspection. Knowing this upfront helps you adjust your offer ceiling or even decide to walk away without a visit.

Questions people ask

Can I rely solely on remote assessment for structural issues?

No. Remote assessment is a valuable screening tool to identify major red flags and guide your next steps, but it can never replace a thorough on-site inspection by a qualified professional. It helps you decide if an on-site visit is even worthwhile.

What if a seller refuses to send photos?

If a seller is unwilling to provide photos of specific areas, it's a yellow flag. You'll need to decide if the potential deal is worth the risk of an unknown structural issue. It often means you need to build in a higher contingency or make a lower offer.

How do I know what to look for in satellite images?

Look for anything that suggests uneven settling or movement: irregular roof lines, misaligned windows or doors, cracks in retaining walls or large concrete slabs, or changes in grading that could direct water toward the foundation. Compare with neighboring properties.