Foundation problems on newer homes/ expansive soils (Denver, Aurora: sales, brokers)

[DougStark]

Does anyone have any experience with foundation problems/ expansive soil problems in their newer Denver area homes?

I think some builders offer warranties for 10 yrs or so against problems. That doesn't seem like a long enough warranty for my comfort though.

I am casually looking for a newer home in far SE Aurora, but I'm aware of the soil problems, not only there but in many other areas in your region.

[bluescreen73]

When we lived in Dallas our foundation was only warranted for 10 years and expansive soils are way more commonplace there than they are here.

[2bindenver]

Things have changed a lot in home building since the 1970's. Every lot has a soil test now. Every basement is engineered for that soil test. Before the 1980s, it was one soil test for the subdivision.

If your house is going to move, it's most likely to so after the landscaping is completed, and you start watering, not years later.

I bought a house that cracked. It wasn't the soil. It was the sewer line. Builder fixed the perimeter drain, the landscaping, the sewer line; all was well in the world.

Maybe you should interview local brokers that have extensive new home sales experience to assist you?

[emm74]

My house was built the end of last year. Although I don't think it has gone to the degree of a foundation problem, there is has been a bit of noticeable settling (doors out of plumb, etc). And the entire block is having drainage issues, which the builder will be mitigating.

We've had some historical storms this year, and I'm actually very grateful about that. I think the crazy weather has exposed issues much more quickly so they can be dealt with appropriately.