Foundation inspection and report costs
A foundation inspection and report costs $300 to $750. We provide repair recommendations so you have a written basis for deciding what work to undertake. That price is for the inspection and report, not the foundation repair itself.
Checking moisture and level
We use an electronic moisture meter to check moisture and a spirit level to check level. These tools support the inspection; neither reading alone explains the cause of a foundation problem.
Walnut Creek, Tice Creek and tributaries to Grayson Creek are primary flood-hazard areas, and localized flooding can occur elsewhere. Downtown flooded during a major storm in 1958. A property's distance from a creek is not enough to rule out flood exposure. Local conditions also include occasional light winter freezes.
Construction drawings and current permit requirements
When needed, we provide code-compliant construction drawings for the repair. Recommendations describe the proposed work; construction drawings provide the plans for carrying it out.
Walnut Creek permit applications received on or after January 1, 2026 must meet the 2025 California Building Code and the 2025 California Residential Code. We use those requirements for drawings associated with applications received from that date onward.
Framing inspection before insulation
We inspect framing before insulation is installed, checking it against the structural drawings and applicable code provisions. If your project needs this inspection, arrange it for the stage when the framing is still exposed. A foundation inspection does not replace this check of the framing.
What to Expect
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Tell Us What You Need
A short call is enough for us to understand the project and what it will take.
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Research First
We review what's already on file, records, plans, and prior work, before anyone heads out.
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Clear, Written Price
You get the scope and the price in writing before any work starts. No surprises.
Some of what that looks like in the field:
- Size and detail the replacement beam, posts, connections, and any required footing upgrades.
- Document site observations with notes, measurements, and photographs, then analyze the likely root causes of observed issues.
What It Typically Costs
Typical ranges, not a fixed price - the exact number is confirmed in writing before work starts.
$70–$250
$2000–$5000
FAQs
Basic structural inspections typically range from $350 to $800. Foundation inspections and reports cost $300 to $750. Load-bearing wall analysis or beam calculations run $250 to $1,000. Residential engineering plans range from $500 to $3,000, while full drawings for additions can reach $2,000 to $5,000. Hourly rates fall between $70 and $250. Prices depend on project scope, site access, and required documentation.
Demand often exceeds supply in many areas because licensed structural engineers handle specialized work like load calculations, foundation assessments, and code compliance. Smaller firms may have limited availability, and not all civil engineers focus on residential structural issues. Checking local licensing boards and professional directories can help locate qualified professionals for specific needs.
A structural engineer inspects visible elements from foundation to roof framing, reviews building history, measures elevations, and analyzes loads. They size beams, posts, and connections, calculate required footing upgrades, and document observations with notes and photos. Their work ensures safety and code compliance for modifications like wall removals or additions.
Our Service Area
Based in Walnut Creek, CA. Call (925) 532-0683 to confirm coverage for your address.
Also Available
What You Can Hold Us To
No-Pressure Quotes
Call (925) 532-0683 for a free quote.