Engineer or contractor?
When repairing foundation problems, contractors often work under the direction of licensed engineers. But more often, a professional engineer will diagnose a foundation problem FIRST and an independent contractor will follow the guidance of the suggested repairs. Many times the professional engineer will then re-inspect the foundation and certify that the repairs now meet the needs of municipalities code regulations.
Consumers are wise not to take suggested advice from contractors, regardless of experience, without the back up inspection of a P.E. The P.E. designation is the credential of a licensed professional engineer for the State of Texas. A Professional Engineer (PE) is an engineer licensed by a state board of registration to practice engineering . The PE license is the engineering profession's highest standard of competence, a symbol of achievement and assurance of quality.
Structural engineers ensure the serviceability and safety of the structures such as residential foundations. Structural engineering is a branch of civil engineering which works to design buildings, bridges etc.