Major foundation problems in a 43k home (buffalo ny)

[Diana K.]

I was just informed by my newly hired property management company that I have major foundation issues at one of my properties (walls starting to cave in and bow inwards, according to their report).  The price I was quoted to fix this issue was 11k. This is my entire down payment for the home which was bought 2 years ago.  

So here are my concerns... Why was this not found during the inspection? Could this really happen in 2 years in a  100 year old home? Is it worth it to do this repair and if not what's the alternative? Welcoming all input especially from property owners in Buffalo Ny. 

[Bill S.]

@Diana K. home inspectors miss this kind of stuff every day. Some have no idea what they are doing and others provide a great service and can avoid this kind of thing.

Yes this kind of thing can happen in a 100 year old building in 2 years. I saw an old brick house that had a failed sewer line the owner didn't repair. The water from the sewer softened the foundation and the wall fell out and the house was condemned and had to be torn down.

Now to slow down a bit. Get some pictures. An issue like you/they have made it out to be will easily be visible. If it's a real issue, of the magnitude described, then you need several contactors and a few engineers (you may have to pay the engineers) to look at it. Everyone will have ideas about how to fix it. Talk to them and ask questions. The engineers will want to write a report or something. Pay them to show up and give you their thoughts verbally. If the fix requires stamped plans then hire the one you want for those. You should make sure that the people (contractors and engineers) are very familiar with this kind of work. Ask and verify this prior to spending your time meeting them at the site. Absolutely do not sign or agree to do anything until you have meet with them all. Listen to them all and ask questions. After you have done that then post back and we can give you further guidance.