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Who to Hire to Inspect Home Foundations
Call a structural engineer to inspect your home’s foundation
fstop123 / E+ / Getty Images
fstop123 / E+ / Getty Images
Highlights
A structural engineer inspects foundations, identifies damage, and recommends long-term solutions based on structural integrity.
You can do a basic visual check, but significant findings require a professional evaluation to prevent bigger problems.
Benefits of hiring a pro include unbiased recommendations, no repair upselling, and a written report with findings and next steps
Watch for cracks, sticking doors and windows, uneven floors, and crawl space moisture, then schedule a professional inspection promptly.
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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
If you’re wondering who to hire to inspect your home foundation, contact a structural engineer. These experts assess structural integrity, spot damage or settlement, and provide a written report with recommendations. Use this hiring guide when you notice warning signs or want a proactive check.
Benefits of Hiring a Structural Engineer for a Foundation Inspection
A structural engineer brings specialized training to evaluate your foundation’s condition and long-term stability. Because they do not perform repairs, their guidance is unbiased and focused on durable, lasting fixes rather than quick patches. After the visit, you receive a written report explaining what was found and what to do next, so you can decide whether to repair now or monitor conditions.
Here’s what you can expect when hiring a structural engineer:
Assesses existing issues and potential risks before they lead to major structural problems
Determines whether your foundation can safely support the home’s load and pressure over time
Identifies underlying conditions that affect structural integrity, such as movement or moisture concerns
Offers independent recommendations with no incentive to sell unnecessary repair services
Avoids upselling by separating inspection from any repair work or products
Prioritizes long-term, durable solutions that protect your home’s structure for the life of the building
Delivers a detailed written report outlining findings, conclusions, and recommended next steps
Reviews signs of settling, sinking, or evidence of previous foundation repair work
Helps you confidently plan repairs or monitoring based on documented, expert analysis
Focuses advice on preventing minor concerns from becoming larger, costlier problems
If your inspection reveals serious foundation issues or structural movement, consult a structural engineer near you to ensure you receive a thorough, unbiased evaluation and recommendations for next steps.
Can I Hire a Home Inspector for a Foundation Inspection?
A home inspector reviews the overall condition of the home, including the foundation and crawl space, and can flag general concerns. However, they do not have the technical expertise of a structural engineer to diagnose foundation problems or prescribe solutions.
Use a home inspector for broad assessments or during real estate transactions. For serious issues or when you need specific repair recommendations, hire a structural engineer for a comprehensive evaluation and report.
How Do Structural Engineers Inspect a Foundation?
Structural engineer inspections follow a focused, three-step process that leads to clear, actionable guidance for homeowners.
Pre-inspection discussion: Share all signs you have noticed, such as cracks, sticking doors or windows, uneven floors, or moisture concerns.
Inspection: The engineer examines the foundation for damage, settling, sinking, and any evidence of previous repairs or movement.
Post-inspection report: You receive a written report that documents findings and provides recommendations for repairs or ongoing monitoring.
How Much Does a Foundation Inspection Cost?
The average cost of a foundation inspection is $340 to $780. Your total bill depends on factors such as your location, home size, and the inspection type. A general structural report costs $550, but your costs can increase up to $1,200 or more if the pro discovers possible damage.
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