Crumbling Foundations in Connecticut: What Homeowners Should Check

Some foundations in northeastern Connecticut were poured with concrete that contains pyrrhotite, a mineral that makes concrete break down over time. FEMA reports that homes built between 1983 and 2000 in that area are at risk. If your home fits that profile, look into testing before you plan a basement finish, an addition or other work that depends on the foundation.

What pyrrhotite does to concrete

Pyrrhotite is a mineral found in the stone used to make some concrete. When it is exposed to oxygen and water, the concrete deteriorates. FEMA estimates that as many as 34,000 residential properties may have affected foundations.

Which homes are at risk

• Homes in northeastern Connecticut built between 1983 and 2000, according to FEMA.
• Homes in towns that report defective foundation concrete. The Town of Manchester says it is one of more than 40 Connecticut municipalities affected.
• Your town records can help you confirm when the house was built.

Where to get help with testing and claims

1. Ask the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) about its program. CRCOG reimburses core testing or visual inspections of foundations suspected of containing pyrrhotite.
2. If testing confirms a problem, contact CFSIC, the state's captive insurer. It handles foundation replacement and remediation claims.
3. Ask your town assessor about an assessment reduction. Manchester notes that owners may qualify under 2016 legislation.
4. Keep copies of test results, reports and letters. You will need them for claims and for any permit application.

Planning foundation work under the state code

The State Building Code applies in every Connecticut town, and each town's building official administers it. State law requires a permit to be issued or refused within 30 days of the application. The code places all of Connecticut in climate zone 5A and sets the frost line at 42 inches, so new footings generally go at least that deep unless one of the code's other frost-protection methods is used.

Hire a registered contractor

Connecticut requires home improvement contractors and new home construction contractors to register with the Department of Consumer Protection. Before you sign a contract, look up the registration at elicense.ct.gov.