Foundation Picture and Question

[Derek T.]

I saw a house today that had a pretty significant crack right in the middle of the concrete steps that lead to the front door. In addition, there was a smaller crack in the basement (concrete slab) in the same area as the other crack (middle of the house). One corner of the house seemed to be lower than the middle but I didn't notice any cracks in the walls, ceilings, etc. The foundation problems didn't seem that bad to me however I wouldn't know any better. In addition, there was a little water in the basement where the smaller crack was and it seemed to come from the crack as I didn't see an evidence of the water coming down from above or anywhere else in the room.

Anyway I am looking for any input on how extensive a job like this might be, a rough estimate for the job. Also I know it is possible for water to come up in the basement through a crack so I imagine this is the culprit for the water however what would be involved to fix this or would it be fixed with the foundation repair? I am mainly looking to adjust my repair estimates for my offer and I would get it inspected upon approval of the offer.

I included the pictures I took of it......sorry I didn't take better pictures. The first picture is of the small crack in the basement and the second is of the larger one on the entry steps.

[Dave Savage]

If the crack is in the floor and water coming through there, it would be similar to a house I dealt with. I installed a french drain and new sump pit and it solved the problem as the water had no where to drain to below the slab. It cost about $4k for the french drain and sump to go around a ~650sq ft basement.

If the crack is in the wall I would follow J Scott's advice if you did want to tackle this house, possibly in combination with a french drain.