Why a DIY Underpinning Job Is Not the Way to Go

The cost of underpinning a home can be very costly, and you might feel like you're being ripped off. This results in some individuals that try and carry on their home renovations without expert consultation.

We understand that costs can escalate depending on the magnitude of the project. It's crucial, however, to understand that underpinning is not a DIY job.

There are so many factors that go into it, and this is a messy job that requires professionals to carry out the work. In most cases, there is extensive knowledge and research required, mandatory safety inspections to be carried out, and legal documentation to be filled out, to name a few.

To help you understand better, we have created this guide for you to understand why a DIY underpinning job is not the way to go keeping in mind the cost to underpin the house.

Your Building Needs To Be Surveyed First

Underpinning the foundations of a building is a big operation, and the worst thing you can do for your building is to jump straight into underpinning. You need to get your building professionally surveyed first if you notice any signs of subsidence.

You can hire a structural engineer or chartered surveyor to have a look at your property and to offer professional consultation on what's needed.

It's important to know that not all subsidence requires underpinning, and in most cases, it's just a matter of removing a root from a tree that's interfering with your buildings' foundation. A professional surveyor will tell you precisely what needs to be done.

You Need To Have The Legal Aspects In Place

Before you start any building, you need to check if you have permission to do so. This work must be notifiable under the Building Regulations.

This work is easily done by professionals who can assist you through all the legal work that's required.

You Need To Choose The Best Type Of Underpinning

There are different types of underpinning procedures, and each technique is suitable for specific circumstances. Traditional mass concrete underpinning works well when you don't have to excavate deep underground. Piling is required only when the survey reveals that there is a high-water table with poor soil.

There are many different types of piling machines and piles available to be used. Each one has a specific purpose and works best with the conditions of the ground and the headroom available.

Expert structural engineers and contractors are there to assist you and advise you on this matter.

Choose the Best Contractor

Underpinning is for professionals, and not a DIY job. As such, you will probably need to hire the right contractor for the job who can influence whether you get the best outcome you're looking for.

It's natural to opt for the cheapest contracts available, but this does not necessarily mean you get the best available contractors who offer quality work.

You need to choose specialists with years of experience in the industry. Hearing testimonials from past clients is a great way to assess the quality of work you will get from them.