A Foundation Repair Second Opinion Before You Sign a Big Quote
Yes, you can get a second opinion on a foundation repair quote, and if the quote runs into the tens of thousands of dollars, it’s worth getting one. We get requests for second opinions from homeowners holding foundation repair quotes, often in the $40,000 to $60,000 range, who are uneasy about spending that money. Often we can present an alternative “wait-and-see” approach, so at least they have a second option to weigh.
We’re Johnson Broderick Engineering, consulting structural and civil engineers in Eugene. We don’t sell or install foundation repairs.
Why get a second opinion on a foundation repair quote?
Because a foundation repair company’s quote is one answer to your problem, and it’s usually not the only one. A structural engineer looks at what the foundation is actually doing and what your options are, including options that don’t start with the largest possible repair.
What is a "wait-and-see" approach?
It’s a measured alternative to committing to a major repair right away. Instead of fixing everything now, you monitor the house over time and repair only if the movement continues. It won’t be right for every house, but it gives you a real second option before spending a large sum.
Is a crack in my foundation always a problem?
Not necessarily. One concerning crack may be a sign of movement, or it may be the result of poor installation, under-reinforcement or other causes. Much of a foundation is below grade, under a crawlspace, or otherwise hidden, so what you can see is only part of the picture. That’s exactly why a single alarming crack deserves a measured look rather than an automatic repair.
Should I call a contractor or an engineer first?
If you’re simply worried about your foundation and there’s no big quote on the table yet, you can often save money by calling a contractor first. If the contractor needs help from an engineer, you can get hold of us then. We tell callers this regularly, and people appreciate it.
If you already have a large repair quote and want an independent view before signing, that’s when calling us directly makes sense.
Can you inspect a foundation for a home I'm buying or selling?
No. We don’t currently provide foundation evaluations as part of real estate transactions, because of the risk involved. A home’s foundation is at least partly hidden, below grade, under a crawlspace or otherwise inaccessible, so a full assessment is impossible. A single crack could mean movement or could mean nothing more than poor installation. For those reasons we can’t in good faith prepare a document for a buyer or seller to rely on as part of a sale.
We’re still happy to talk it through on the phone. We’ll explain what could be going on and what the ways to deal with it might be.
Common questions
Will you tell me if the repair is actually needed?
We’ll give you our honest view. We don’t sugar coat. If the repair company’s recommendation is the right one, we’ll tell you so. If there’s a reasonable alternative, we’ll lay it out.
Do you do the repair work?
No. We’re engineers, not a repair company. If the work needs engineering, we can prepare the design and help you find a contractor.
What should I send you?
The repair quote, photos of the cracks or areas of concern, any measurements, and how long you’ve noticed the issue. Email lets you attach all of it.
Talk to us before you sign
Call 541-338-9488 or email info@jbe.us.com, and attach the quote and any photos. We return every new inquiry the same day if possible, and by the next business day at the latest. Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. If we can’t get to the phone, leave a message and we’ll call you back.