Reading a foundation repair bid

Pier count

More is not automatically better. Ask why that exact number and spacing was chosen and what the floor data showed.

Method

Helical piers, push piers, and other systems behave differently in expansive clay. Make sure the recommendation matches the direction of movement (settlement vs heave).

Language

Watch for urgency, worst-case framing, and vague warranty language. Clear scope, clear exclusions, and a willingness to discuss monitoring are better signs.

Red flags

• Pressure to sign the same day
• Refusal to share the actual elevation data
• Recommendations that ignore obvious drainage problems