How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Working with a qualified foundation repair provider is important for accurately evaluating the damage and making the right repairs. We suggest focusing on these main factors.
Experience
We recommend looking for a local foundation repair provider with a well-established track record of fixing various types of foundations. These companies should have expertise in the latest techniques and materials. Ask how many years a provider has served your area.
Reputation
Spend time researching online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that the company consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of any complaints describing poor service or faulty repairs.
Licensing and Insurance
It's important to select a provider that has the correct credentials, bonding, 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. In addition to this registration, most jobs will require at least one individual to have a Construction Supervisor's License. Any work completed by registered HICs is backed by the Guaranty Fund, which can provide you with compensation of up to $10,000 if the work is faulty and your contractor is unable to pay for damages. Contractors may have to meet additional requirements to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Choose a provider that offers long transferable warranties of at least a decade, ideally lifetime guarantees, to fully back their foundation repairs. This demonstrates that they stand behind the quality of their repairs and offers protection if future issues arise.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
To compare foundation repair companies, you should ask specific questions such as:
- What type of guarantees are provided? Reputable companies typically offer warranties of minimum 10 years on materials and labor.
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Asking for a quote in writing helps protect you from unexpected costs.
- How long will the repairs realistically take? Look for providers that provide reasonable estimates.
- What financing options do you offer? Many providers offer payment plans for larger foundation projects.
- What foundation defects did you identify 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 exact repair method do you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may consider options such as steel piers, carbon fiber, and wall anchors. By asking, you can get an idea of what solutions a company offers and compare between providers.
Taking time to carefully evaluate foundation repair contractors will help homeowners find the right company for their needs. A company that can thoroughly answer these questions is likely one that offers durable, high-quality repairs. Promptly fixing foundation issues helps avoid further structural damage.
