Key takeaways
- Small, stable cracks rarely need an engineer.
- Serious or growing movement, real estate disputes and permits often do.
- An engineer is independent of whoever does the repair.
What an engineer does
A licensed structural engineer evaluates the foundation and frame, determines the cause and severity and specifies the repairs, signing the report. The report can be used for permits, insurance and negotiation.
Because the engineer does not sell the repair, the opinion is independent.
When to hire one
Consider an engineer for wide or growing cracks, a bowing wall, a leaning chimney, a home with multiple signs of movement, a sale where the buyer or seller disagrees or any project that needs stamped drawings.
For minor issues, a contractor's inspection and monitoring may be enough.
How we work with them
We can arrange a licensed engineer and then build the repair to their design, or work with your own engineer. Either way you get written specifications and a clear scope.
Our inspection tells you whether an engineer is needed.
Related services
Quick answers
How much does an engineer's report cost?
Commonly published fees run from several hundred to a couple of thousand dollars depending on scope.
Can I use my own engineer?
Yes. We build to the design of the engineer you choose.
Ready to talk it through? Get a free estimate or call 615-209-7643.