Well, maybe not “hidden” but there are several potential additional costs that property owners should look for when reviewing helical pier installation quotes. Keep in mind any numbers listed on a website would have to be only for a rough idea and could not be taken as an accurate quote without knowing your unique factors. While some contractors may bundle these into a per-pier price, a transparent quote should clearly break down the following factors:

• Site Inspection Fee: These typically pretty affordable and some contractors may even waive this fee if you decide to proceed with the contract.
• Mobilization Fee: This covers the transport of equipment and the crew to your location, and will depend on where you live.
• Engineering Review: A structural load design is required to ensure the system is safe, which also adds to project cost.
• Permit Costs: Depending on your local municipality, permits should range from $100 to $400.
• Site Preparation: Any necessary clearing or leveling of the area to allow equipment access can add to the final total.

To avoid budget surprises, it is recommended to have your contractor commit all fees to writing and to clarify whether the per-pier cost includes materials like hot-dip galvanization and installation labor.