Proper engineering consists of good design and careful construction. There are about 7 or 8 variations of design for support systems, some of which I wouldn't recommend if they were giving away the materials and work for free. With a good design the question is how well it fits the client's needs, how effective the workmanship, and the details (true value) of the "guarantee".

Since I retired I have been involved with the "house repair" side of the local problems of swelling soils. I believe that there has been considerable overcharging by the industry and would like to help the homeowner both with buying and selling the home to get the better value. I would like to review any proposal of any bidder to see if there really is a need for so much work. As I stated above, "If I can save you the cost of one unnecessary pier, my fee is covered by your savings."

Multiple bids are recommended from house levelers. I will inspect elevation measurements taken by the prospective contractor(s) to determine the best course of action.

This is an example of a simple, localized settlement failure, and can be repaired by the addition of only a few piers.      This example, particularly the vertical crack in the wall, is a sign of more extensive settlement, and must be repaired by the addition of a number of piers.

"I use my abilities to provide an unbiased opinion to homeowners (while considering the needs of the client) with respect to their problems in foundation distress (buying, selling or just fixing up). For a fixed fee I will provide guidance in structural distress relative to real needs, insurance claims, claims by foundation repair people, and consequences for real estate transactions. For an additional fee, data will be provided for tangible proof of repair effectiveness after the job is done. So that there will be no questions about guarantees, it is better for a first opinion in order to give the client more knowledge when talking to the contractor. However, I will critique previous recommendations."
-Cecil Smith

Dr. Smith, Thank you for helping me make my decision for the home I am considering. It was certainly an education in explaining the unwritten details of the contractor's contract and the engineer's report and recommendations. I am glad you are a real geotechnical engineer.

Very truly yours, Lorrie Anderson