Key takeaways
- Short answer: Foundation piers typically cost $1,000–$3,000 each, installed.
- Piers: $1,000–$3,000 each installed
- Typical repair: $2,176–$7,833
- Engineer report: $300–$1,000
- Typical foundation repair cost: $2,176–$7,833 per typical project.
What changes the price per pier
- Pier type: pressed concrete, steel push piers and helical piers are priced differently.
- Depth to stable soil: deeper load-bearing soil means longer piers and more labor.
- Access: piers under interior floors or tight crawl spaces cost more than exterior piers.
- Extras: plumbing tests, landscaping, permits and engineer letters are often line items.
How many piers will you need?
It depends on how much of the house has moved. A sinking corner may need only a few piers, while a whole side can need 10 or more. A structural engineer's report ($300–$1,000) should set the plan before you compare bids.
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Piering / underpinning | $1,000–$3,000 per pier |
| Average foundation repair | $2,176–$7,833 |
| Structural engineer report | $300–$1,000 |
| Crack repair | $250–$800 per crack |
How to compare pier quotes
- Get an independent engineer's evaluation first.
- Ask each contractor for pier count, pier type and target depth in writing.
- Compare the price per pier and the total, not just the total.
- Confirm a lifetime warranty that transfers to future buyers.
- Ask who handles permits and the post-repair plumbing test.
A quote with far more piers than the engineer recommends is a red flag. Ask the contractor to explain the difference.
Related questions
Are helical piers more expensive than push piers?
Prices overlap, and the right type depends on your soil and load. Ask each bidder why they chose the pier type they quoted.
Does insurance pay for foundation piers?
Usually not. Settling and soil movement are typically excluded unless a covered event, like a sudden plumbing leak, caused the damage.
Is foundation repair priced per pier or per job?
Most pier jobs are quoted per pier plus fixed costs such as permits, engineering and plumbing tests.
Other foundation repair questions homeowners ask
How much does foundation repair cost?
A typical foundation repair costs about $2,176–$7,833. Piers usually cost $1,000–$3,000 each, so the number of piers drives the total.
How much does a structural engineer foundation inspection cost?
Engineer evaluations commonly cost several hundred dollars. It is worth paying for an independent opinion before hiring a repair company.
Does homeowners insurance cover foundation repair?
Usually not for settling, soil movement or wear. Coverage typically applies only when a covered event, such as a sudden plumbing leak, causes the damage.
Foundation Repair at a glance
Timeline
Pier installation usually takes 1–3 days. Wall stabilization and waterproofing take 1–5 days.
Permits
Structural foundation repair often needs a permit and an engineer's letter, especially for resale.
DIY or pro?
Grading, gutters and steady soil moisture are DIY prevention. Structural repair needs a licensed contractor and, ideally, an independent engineer.
What foundation repair costs
Foundation repair averages about $5,001, with most projects costing $2,176–$7,833. Simple crack repairs cost a few hundred dollars, while pier systems that lift and stabilize a home cost $1,000–$3,000 per pier.
Keep reading
Sources: Bob Vila — Foundation repair cost. Ranges are rounded estimates; see our editorial policy.