Digital leveling systems

How many of you use a measuring tool for foundation issues such as a Zip Level or DLS leveling system to do a reading on the homes foundation? I am thinking of adding one to my services although I am concerned about the liability and also adding it to my agreement. Any suggestions good or bad?

I don't see a need for level measurements on a HI.

I have one I'll be bringing to our conference. Best I've ever seen and it's cheap too-

It's not really for every inspection use, it's to confirm findings in my opinion.

Nathan wrote:I have one I'll be bringing to our conference. Best I've ever seen and it's cheap too-

It's not really for every inspection use, it's to confirm findings in my opinion.

Do you have a link?

You'll have to see it at the conference!

We'll be giving one away, along with a bunch of other stuff.

Tracy, you should consider adding one. Although you most often have no historical benchmark to reference, it is a service people occasionally want.

Charlie,

Good to hear from you! Do you use one as an added service or do you just do your own reading if you suspect possible issues?

I bought a zip level earlier in the year, mostly b/c w/ my engrg degree on my marketing mat'l, I thought I should at least have one. I never was sure how to deploy it biz-wise. I finally used it on a few new constructions. Just took a few readings along the perimeter and middle; made a simple drawing with the data, and included it in the reports. No extra charge; just providing data "for future reference." They may be more likely to call me back for a one-yr warranty inspection; if I do another set of readings.
I don't have an engineering license in Texas, so I have to stop short of "doing engineering." (In my opinion, if I collect this kind of data, then use it to "give an opinion" on the performance of the foundation, (as is required as a HI in Texas,) then that is "engineering."))
For existing homes, I think I would have to charge extra; and may have to have different packages depending on many readings they may need/want, and if I do contour drawing or not.

I use a laser level often to show settlement in foundations/piers. it's easy and fast and provides great info. I think every HI should learn how to use one and use it whenever needed. I've also used laser levels on sagging porches, stairs, window alignment, exterior walls, wall framing, floors and grade elevations. doing commercial work, it is a great tool for drainage in parking lots.

Nathan wrote:You'll have to see it at the conference!

We'll be giving one away, along with a bunch of other stuff.

There wasn't one at the conference. Did you can this idea?

Read the floor on an existing home yesterday. Just for grins I guess; "foundation issues" would've been an easy call w/o the level readings; but the data was intriguing nonetheless. Moreover the drawing made a nice addition to the report presentation.

You're right Juan, I will be putting an offer out on the best one in the market soon though.

Thanks for starting this thread. I've considered buying one before but didn't put any serious thought into it. Now I'm looking into it with the intent to buy in a few months. Just another toy I want to play with.

I've continued using it occasionally (see previous post above.) I think it's a good USP.

I'm giving away my DLS system to the first user to hit 1500 posts. The best on the market. I'll post a picture.