01What happens
The inspector measures floor levels, checks walls and basement or crawl space framing, notes cracks, tests for moisture and looks at gutters, grading and slope around the house.
02Engineer or contractor?
Repair contractors often provide evaluations tied to a proposal. A structural engineer gives an independent report, which buyers, lenders and insurers prefer. For a purchase in an older neighborhood, the engineer is worth it.
03After the visit
Findings may point to crawl space repair, wall work or simply drainage changes.
