How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
You need a good foundation repair company to accurately evaluate issues and make appropriate repairs. Do your research and focus on these important factors when selecting the right company.
Experience
Look for a reliable local foundation company with significant experience in successfully fixing all foundation types. Technicians should have extensive experience with current repair methods and materials. Contact the company to ask how long the business has served your community.
Reputation
Thoroughly reading online reviews, checking the Better Business Bureau, and getting local references helps verify that a provider consistently delivers top-notch workmanship and great service. Pay attention to any complaints about poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
Make sure any company you hire has the right licenses, bonds, and coverage for liability and workers' compensation. In Massachusetts, a foundation repair contractor needs to be registered as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) by the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Additionally, most jobs will require at least one individual to hold a Construction Supervisor's License. Work done by registered HICs is backed by the Guaranty Fund, which can provide compensation up to $10,000 if the work is faulty and your contractor is unable to pay for damages. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Opt for a provider offering long transferable warranties of at least 10 years, ideally lifetime guarantees, to completely back its foundation services. This exhibits confidence that the repairs will be effective and offers protection should problems develop later.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
When comparing potential foundation repair companies, be sure to ask detailed questions such as:
- What financing options do you have? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What type of warranties are provided? Trustworthy providers will offer warranties of at least 10 years on labor and materials.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- Can you provide a project scope and cost estimate in writing? Make sure to get quotes in writing to protect yourself from unexpected costs.
- What foundation flaws did you find during inspection that could be causing the issue? The response should have easy-to-understand explanations and solutions. If a provider offers an unclear answer, it may be attempting to bill you for unneeded work.
- What repairs would you recommend for my situation, and why? Your contractor may provide options such as steel piers, wall anchors, and carbon fiber. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Taking time to vet foundation repair companies will help you locate the right one for you. Providers that can thoroughly answer these questions will likely provide long-lasting, high-quality repairs. Promptly addressing foundation issues helps prevent future structural damage.