Code-Compliant Crawl Spaces in Arkansas — What Inspectors Are Looking For

Whether you’re buying, selling, or renovating a home in Arkansas, don’t overlook one of the most commonly flagged areas on an inspection report:

The crawl space.

At PierPoint Foundation Solutions, we help homeowners avoid surprises during appraisals and closings by making sure their crawl spaces meet state code and structural standards — before an inspector even shows up.

Let’s walk through what it means to be code-compliant in Arkansas, what inspectors are checking for, and how we help you pass with confidence.

🧾 What Makes a Crawl Space “Up to Code” in Arkansas?

Crawl space codes follow the IRC (International Residential Code), with some local amendments based on region. Arkansas generally requires:

• 6 mil vapor barrier minimum on exposed earth (we recommend 20 mil for durability)

• Minimum clearance height between ground and framing (typically 18”)

• Proper ventilation OR encapsulation — not both

• Vent openings based on square footage (or sealed if encapsulated)

• No standing water or signs of active leaks

• No mold, decay, or pest infestation

• Fire blocking where ducts or pipes penetrate subfloor

• Secure, accessible crawl space entry (minimum 16x24”)

• Support piers structurally sound and properly spaced

🛑 Common Crawl Space Code Violations

We frequently see these issues flagged in inspections:

• Torn or missing vapor barrier

• Standing water with no sump pump

• Mold or wood rot on joists or subfloor

• Floor sagging or inadequate support

• Rodent or termite activity

• Uninsulated or unsecured ductwork

• Electrical wiring hanging loose or unprotected

• Ventilation not sized correctly (or vents missing altogether)

Any of these can delay a home sale — or lead to expensive repairs later.

🔧 How PierPoint Helps Homes Pass Inspection

We don’t just fix symptoms — we bring crawl spaces into full compliance with modern standards.

Here’s what we offer:

✔️ Crawl space inspections for buyers or sellers

✔️ Vapor barrier installation (20 mil, reinforced)

✔️ Full encapsulation to eliminate venting requirement

✔️ EZ-Flow drainage and sump pump system

✔️ Floor joist and beam repair

✔️ Mold remediation with safe, professional-grade treatment

✔️ Pest-prevention encapsulation systems

✔️ Crawl space doors and access points built to spec

We even provide documentation and photos that you can pass along to your home inspector or buyer’s agent.

💬 Real Estate Pro Tip

If you’re preparing to list your home, it’s smart to have PierPoint assess your crawl space first.

A small investment now can prevent big surprises later — and keep closings smooth.

📞 Let’s Get You Code-Compliant

Whether you’re prepping for a sale, worried about passing inspection, or just want to do things the right way — we’re here to help.

📍 Serving all of Arkansas

📅 To schedule a code-compliance crawl space inspection, contact Dakota Treece:

📞 (501) 284-9330

📘 Message us on Facebook @PierPointFoundationSolutions

🔗 Book Your Free Crawl Space Code Check

No surprises. No delays. Just code-smart crawl space solutions from PierPoint.