Slab foundation repair: problems, methods and cost

Signs you may need slab foundation repair

• Cracks in tile or the slab itself
• Floors that slope or have a hump (heave)
• Cracks in walls above doors
• Warm spots or the sound of running water: possible slab leak

How slab foundation repair is done

1. Floor elevation survey to tell settlement (low spots) from heave (high spots)
2. Check for plumbing leaks under the slab if heave is suspected
3. Settlement: piers or, for light cases, mudjacking or polyurethane foam
4. Heave: fix the water source; piers don't fix heave
5. Seal cracks and correct drainage around the slab

How much slab foundation repair costs

Slab repair cost depends on whether the slab is settling or heaving, how many piers are needed and access (tile, cabinets, tunnels for plumbing).

Source: HomeGuide, Foundation repair cost (updated Feb 2026); This Old House, Foundation repair cost; HomeGuide, Polyjacking cost (updated Nov 2025); HomeGuide, Mudjacking cost (updated Nov 2025); HomeGuide, Basement waterproofing cost (updated Jan 2026). Checked October 2026.

Estimate your repair in the calculator Is my quote fair?

Before you hire

• Ask whether the movement is settlement or heave and how they know
• Ask for a plumbing test before and after lifting
• Ask whether interior piers mean breaking the floor and who restores it

Permits, codes and licensing

Contractor licensing is set by each state, and some leave it to cities or counties. Some states license this work at state level (for example the CSLB in California, the Registrar of Contractors in Arizona or the DBPR in Florida); others only require registration or local licenses. Check the license or registration number on your state's or city's public lookup before you pay a deposit, and ask for proof of liability insurance.

Companies that offer slab foundation repair

438 companies in the directory name this repair on their own website (the quote is on each company page); they are listed first in each state. Another 0 are companies that usually offer it but don't say so online – confirm when you call.