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CAISSONS or PILES: 
Although a caisson is usually poured into a predrilled hole in the earth and a pile is usually pounded into the earth until it reaches bedrock, both serve much the same purpose. Caissons or piles are found mostly in hillside construction and in unstable soils construction. The caissons are large concrete "columns" which are poured into drilled holes which reach down to bedrock, or more stable soil. Concrete foundations, or "grade beams," are often poured atop the caissons in such a fashion as to make the caissons not apparent. The foundation often appears to be a simple raised and stepped foundation. Sometimes dirt will wash from under the grade beams giving the appearance of an undercut foundation. This usually is not a structural concern. The extent of the property owner's duties are to make sure dirt does not wash from under the grade beams. Any undercut areas should be filled with concrete or dirt however, to prevent excessive water from running under the building. Whether caissons are present or not is sometimes difficult to determine. The inspector usually will have learned of them from the property owner. 

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