Homeowner Seawall Inspection Checklist

Walk the same route each time

1. Take full-length photographs from both ends.
2. Check the cap and wall alignment against fixed references.
3. Record cracks, spalls, rust, open joints and panel separation.
4. Inspect the yard for depressions, displaced pavers and wet paths.
5. Look at wall ends, returns and transitions to neighboring property.
6. Check dock, lift, drain and utility penetrations.
7. At a safe visible water level, note toe exposure, scour or displaced rock.

Create a repeatable record

Name images with date and location, keep one simple wall sketch and repeat photographs from marked positions. Record weather and water conditions. A series of consistent observations is more useful than a folder of unrelated close-ups.

Use the interactive version

Open and save the checklist on this device

Escalation triggers

Prompt evaluation is warranted for sudden movement, a growing void, rapid soil loss, displaced sections, exposed undermining, new distress near a pool or building, or damage after significant storm conditions.