Foundation repair questions, answered for Pittsburgh
Costs, permits, licensing, seasons, insurance and timing: the questions we hear most, with short honest answers. Ask us anything that is not here.
How much does foundation repair cost in Pittsburgh?
It depends entirely on the problem. Sealing a leaking crack typically runs $450 to $950, bracing a bowing wall $3,500 to $9,000, piers under a settled corner $5,500 to $12,000, and a full interior drain with a sump $6,500 to $14,000. The cost guide has the detail. Your price comes after the free inspection, in writing.
Is the inspection free?
Yes, with no obligation. You get our findings in person and a written price if repairs are needed.
Are you licensed?
Pennsylvania does not issue a statewide license for this trade. Contractors doing residential home improvement work over $500 must register with the Attorney General under the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act (HICPA), and the crews we work with are registered and insured. Structural work that needs a permit is permitted with the City or your municipality.
Do I need a permit for foundation repair?
Structural work such as piers or rebuilding a wall usually does. Crack injection, interior drains and sump pumps usually do not. In Pittsburgh, permits go through Permits, Licenses, and Inspections on OneStopPGH; boroughs and townships have their own offices. See the permits guide.
Why does my basement leak only in spring?
Thawing ground releases a lot of water at once, the soil is saturated, and pressure on the walls peaks in March and April. Leaks that appear only then still point to a path that needs fixing.
What does a horizontal crack in a block wall mean?
Usually that soil pressure is pushing the wall in. It is the most common first sign of a bowing wall and worth an inspection soon.
Can you fix my basement without digging up the yard?
Usually. Interior drains, crack injection, carbon fiber straps and steel beams are all installed from inside. Anchors need small holes in the yard; full excavation is only for exterior waterproofing or rebuilds.
How long do repairs take?
Crack injection takes a few hours. Straps or anchors on one wall, a day or two. An interior drain, one to three days. Piers under a corner, two to four days.
Will homeowners insurance cover it?
Policies often exclude settling, soil movement and gradual seepage, but coverage varies, especially after a sudden event like a burst pipe. Ask your agent. We can give you photos and a written description of what we found.
Do you work on old stone foundations?
Yes, every week. Repointing, interior drainage and bracing where needed keep them sound and dry.
Should I buy a house with a foundation crack?
Many good houses have one. Have it inspected before closing so you know whether it is cosmetic, a leak or movement, and what it would cost to fix.
When can you come out?
Most inspections are booked within a few days. Urgent situations, like water pouring in or a wall moving, go first. Every call is taken, 24/7.