How To Choose a Foundation Repair Company
Do thorough research before beginning your foundation repair project in order to find the most qualified foundation repair company. Here are the main factors you should consider.
Experience
Choose a well-established local provider with extensive experience successfully completing all manner of foundation repairs. These companies have specialized expertise with the latest materials and methods. Ask how long a company has served homes in your area.
Reputation
Spend time checking online reviews, browsing the Better Business Bureau, and requesting local references. This will help verify that a provider consistently delivers quality work and professionalism. Take note of complaints mentioning 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 contractor who works on residential foundations needs to be registered as a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) by the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Additionally, most jobs require at least one individual to possess a Construction Supervisor's License. Work that is completed by registered HICs is backed by the Guaranty Fund, which can provide compensation of up to $10,000 if your contractor is unable to reimburse you for damages sustained. There may be additional requirements for contractors to do certain work with concrete.
Warranties
Look for a provider that offers transferable coverage for a minimum of 10 years, preferably lifetime guarantees, to back its work. This demonstrates that the company stands behind its work and safeguards you if issues come up in the future.
Questions To Ask Foundation Repair Companies
During the process of selecting foundation repair providers, get detailed answers to questions such as:
- Can you provide a complete written cost estimate and project scope? Getting the details in writing helps shield you from unexpected costs.
- Realistically, how long will the repairs take? Look for companies that provide reasonable estimates.
- What foundation defects 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 extra work.
- What financing options do you offer? Providers often offer payment plans for larger foundation repairs.
- What type of warranties are provided? Trustworthy providers often offer warranties of at least 10 years on materials and labor.
- What repair method would you recommend for this specific situation and why? Your provider may offer options such as carbon fiber, steel piers, and wall anchors. Asking allows you to compare suggested solutions between companies.
Thoroughly assessing foundation repair companies helps homeowners identify the ideal match for their needs. A provider that can answer the questions above is likely one that offers high-quality, long-lasting repairs. Swiftly tackling foundation problems helps prevent further structural damage.