Before a final decision is made on the choice of underpinning for a particular application, there are several aspects to be considered. The various types of underpinning available are discussed in order to provoke thought on which type may be worth further consideration for the project at hand. Some factors are given which may influence the choice of underpinning to enable an informed decision to be made. Finally some specific points are covered in relation to groundwater, subsidence settlement, safety and the financial aspects of underpinning.