I would like to know of any recommendations for an expert to inspect & eventually (after close) repair a 1919 house

Elaine G
by Elaine G
that has settling and needs leveling and such. The house is in Chapel Hill.
  9 answers
  • Elaine, Try searching for contractors in your area, See the 'Search' button up on the left hand side. You can look for contractors and request quotes from them as well. I am sure a member from your area should also be able to help you with a recommendation here. Is your home anyway a part of the historic district?
  • Elaine G Elaine G on Aug 12, 2011
    I did look but the company names are generic and there is no category for this. I want someone who knows and respects old houses ands does this specific type work all the time, not just as a line item on a long list. Ya know what I mean? Someone who does preservation restoration contracting. ....
  • Elaine, Gotcha! let me ask around a bit and see if I can find you some leads. It is very important that the person knows what he is dealing with when it is a 1919 home. Will update you as soon as I find something!
  • Deborah Deborah on Aug 13, 2011
    Elaine, you might try getting in touch with the NC Historic Preservation. They may have a list for you. I did a lot fo research on grants, etc. when I was thinking of moving to Richlands (the house was destroyed by rain). Isn't there a historic society in Chapel Hill - I think so. Try the Horace Williams House on Franklin Street.
  • Elaine G Elaine G on Aug 13, 2011
    My realtor said a structural engineer perhaps?
  • Cathy H Cathy H on Aug 15, 2011
    I've used Raymond Engineering (919) 942-7000. There an engineering company and will evaluate what needs to be done then make recommendations for contractors.
  • Harold M Harold M on Aug 15, 2011
    Elaine, I've owned and worked on alot of old houses. When I'm close to 100 years old (if I live that long) I'm gonna be sagging and creaky I'm sure. My advice is to stabilize it and forget about jacking it up and trying to get everything straight. Unless you've got alot of money. Now if there is rotten wood (sill plates etc) or termite damage thats a whole different story. Just keep telling yourself that it will be nice when its finished. Keep us posted
  • Elaine G Elaine G on Aug 17, 2011
    At this point we did not contract. Could not close it to an agreeable price. Basically, they would not counter. I believe they are correct the house is valuable, however, it requires immediate investment. As a buyer you see the price plus investment as the sum total cost of purchasing the home. I guess they think the cost of repairs is not their problem.
  • Paula R Paula R on Sep 14, 2011
    Try Orion Restoration at 770-506-3365. www.orionrestoration.com