Structural inspection
A specialized inspection by a structural engineer, usually ordered if the general inspection spots foundation cracks or framing problems. More detailed and more expensive.
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Free to set up. No credit card.Part 1 of 4
Why a seller cares
When a general inspector sees a foundation crack or sagging framing, a structural engineer is the next call. Their letter either closes the question or prices it, and it carries weight with lenders that an inspector's note does not.
Part 2 of 4
A simple example
The inspector flags a horizontal crack in a basement wall. The buyer's engineer visits, measures, and writes a letter: cosmetic, no movement, monitor.
| What the engineer says | What follows |
|---|---|
| Cosmetic, no movement | The item closes; the letter goes in the file |
| Movement, repair recommended | A quote, usually in the thousands, and a negotiation |
| Active failure | A repair before closing, or a buyer who walks |
An engineer's letter turns a scary crack into a decision.
Part 3 of 4
What people get wrong
That a crack means a failing foundation. Most are settlement cracks the engineer signs off in a paragraph.
Part 4 of 4 · where to read next
Where it appears in the sale
What a definition is, and what it isn't
Keighbor is a software company, not a law firm, brokerage, or tax adviser. This is general information, not legal, tax, financial, or real estate advice about your sale. Your situation may differ. Before acting on a contract, disclosure, title, tax, or pricing question, ask an appropriately licensed professional in your state.
Written and researched by Keighbor Research · drawn from the reference glossary · how we research and check what we publish
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